Proposed Changes

Q: Why does IAF CertSearch need to be mandatory?

Answer

The database needs to to be mandatory so it can provide a reliable certificate verification service to business and regulators around the world and so it can be effective in preventing fraud and misuse in the industry.

It is also necessary to be mandatory to provide reliable market analytics to ABs, CBs, RAGs and 3rd parties.

For further information on the mandatory requirements refer to IAF MD28:2023 IAF Mandatory Document for the Upload and Maintenance of Data on IAF Database.

Q: What other certification databases are mandatory?

Answer

There are many examples of successful and reliable mandatory digital databases including: IAQG (Aerospace), IATF (Automotive), Quest TIA (Telecoms), and many Scheme Databases (e.g BRC, IFS, SQF, FSSC etc) and AB databases.

Q: What evidence exists to show demand for the user-pays services?

Answer

The DMC undertook market research to understand the demand and potential price points for the user-pays services (analytical service and verification service). This data was used to adjust the financial business case and was presented as part of the final proposal to IAF members.

Q: What happens if the proposed option fails?

Answer

If this user-pays financial option fails Quality Trade (the IT Service Provider) has confirmed they will underpin the cost of delivering the database for a minimum of five years, from when the database is made mandatory. This will allow sufficient time for the new financial model to become established and any adjustments in the pricing and service to be made, to ensure it is financially sustainable.