Accreditation & Self Assessment

PUBLIC REVIEW AND COMMENT

Agencies are encouraged to make a formal presentation of the results of the self assessment to the elected governing body of the parent agency. The documentation developed during the self assessment should be used as the basis for making such presentations. The presentation should be made in a forum that allows the public an opportunity to comment on the findings and improvements made as a result of the self assessment.

The presentation could become part of the formal budget process or an agency-wide strategic planning effort. Each agency will need to determine the appropriate content and venue for such a presentation.

RECOGNITION BY APWA

APWA realizes that the self assessment process represents a significant investment of resources. APWA believes that any agency that completes the self assessment process, outlined in this publication, will experience an improvement in the agency's understanding of purpose and ability to provide effective public works services.

Agencies that complete the self assessment process and present their findings to the public and elected officials will be officially recognized by APWA for their effort. Recognition will consist of an appropriate certificate or plaque which commends the agency for successful completion of the self assessment program.

This recognition should not be confused with agency accreditation which requires substantial compliance with all applicable recommended practices; setting goals for improvement; and a formal evaluation of the agency's policies, procedures and practices. More information on accreditation for agencies is found elsewhere in this publication.

The recognition will be presented to the agency by a representative of APWA at a meeting of the agency's elected body and at a meeting of the local APWA chapter.

FEEDBACK ACTIVELY SOLICITED BY APWA

APWA is committed to periodically updating the recommended practices contained in Public Works Management Practices. The updates will be based on a formal review by an advisory committee of practitioners to ensure that the recommended practices are both relevant and current.

It is intended that the Management Practices manual be a "living" document. As your agency conducts a self assessment APWA would invite you to submit your suggestions for recommended practices that should be added, deleted, or revised.

Send your recommendations to APWA's Director of Professional Development, Ann Daniels

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