An organization achieves certification by demonstrating that its management structure and processes conform to the Standard. The certification process is simple.

  1. The organization decides that it wants to develop a quality management system that complies with CIMS and requests an application.
  2. The organization conducts an internal review to be sure that it meets CIMS certification requirements.
  3. The organization undergoes a comprehensive assessment by an independent third party and demonstrates compliance with CIMS. The independent third party that assesses compliance is known as an assessor.
  4. An organization applies for re-certification every two years.