PRCA runs CMS as an improvement tool, focused on guiding organisations toward best practice without unnecessary bureaucracy. The process is transparent, fair, supportive, and strictly confidential, ensuring your business approach remains private.

CMS is fully online, cost-effective, and flexible, with a timed 2.5-hour assessment and evidence development at your own pace.

• The first step

We recommend scheduling a 15-minute call with the CMS Assessment Service as your first step. This allows us to understand your current stage—whether you're ready to start immediately or need to implement processes like client feedback mechanisms or benchmarking. For in-house teams, we can discuss exemptions for standards outside the Communications team's remit. During this call, we may also suggest helpful resources, including free training or online seminars for PRCA members.

• The approach

After the call, PRCA corporate members receive the CMS documentation to begin the process at their own pace. You score your organisation based on the evidence you have, with the option to create new evidence or disregard areas that aren't meaningful, provided you meet the 75% threshold per section and overall. Evidence can include documents, screenshots, or videos, as long as it's current (from the past year) and relevant. The Assessment Service is available to guide and support you throughout the process.

• The moderation

Once ready, you can schedule your CMS moderation. This is a timed 2.5-hour process where you'll receive three subsections via email and submit your evidence in response. If the evidence matches your scores, CMS is awarded. If adjustments are needed, a follow-up moderation is arranged at no extra cost. In some cases, CMS is awarded with recommendations. You’ll receive your results within two working days.