Description:

Ever wonder how to handle change notices without getting lost or falling behind? In this episode, Areaka walks through what change notices really mean, why the one-year window isn’t a free pass to delay compliance, and how to stay current in PowerDMS. From practical tips to real-world pitfalls, this one will keep you a step ahead — and your assessors impressed.

Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:44 What are change notices

1:18 Where to find them

2:10 When standards become effective

2:54 The one-year compliance rule clarified

3:40 Common pitfalls agencies face

4:35 When to adopt the new standards

5:10 How to upgrade to new versions in PowerDMS

6:00 How to keep up with future changes

6:55 Handling legislative updates

7:35 Final thoughts and wrap-up

Companion document to download:

Back to Basics Series: Change Notices

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Episode Description:

Wrapping up the highlighting portion of the Back to Basics Series, Areaka Jewell walks you through how to highlight proofs of compliance — those attachments like training records, memos, and reports that show your agency is doing what its policies say it does. Learn how to keep your highlights simple, consistent, and easy for assessors to follow, while avoiding the most common mistakes that make reviews take longer.

Key Takeaways:

• Start by reviewing the standard’s proof of compliance section and noting how many examples and what timeframe is required.

• Highlight both the document title and the date (if applicable) and include any key notations like approvals or signatures.

• Keep highlight labels simple — use “Proof 1,” “Year 1,” or short keywords. Avoid adding names or dates.

• When linking, deselect the default checkbox for the standard statement if your highlight supports a specific bullet.

• Consistency and simplicity make it easier for assessors to follow and for you to maintain across cycles.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction and overview of the Back to Basics highlighting series

01:22 – Step 1: Review the proof of compliance requirements and timeframe

02:27 – Step 2: What and when to highlight in your proofs

03:33 – Step 3: Labeling your highlights clearly and consistently

05:06 – Step 4: Linking your highlights to the right part of the standard

06:22 – Wrap-up: Keep it simple, intentional, and repeatable

Companion document to download:

Back to Basics Series: Highlighting Part 2 of 2

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Know someone doing great things in the accreditation world—or want to share your own insights? We’re always looking for experienced Accreditation Managers, assessors, and change-makers to join us on the podcast. Sign up to be a guest or share with a colleague

Episode Description:

Ever wonder how much highlighting is too much in your accreditation files? In this episode, Areaka breaks down the art of highlighting written directives in PowerDMS — step by step. Learn how to make your highlights intentional, your labels clear, and your files assessor-friendly without the clutter or confusion.

Timestamps:

0:00 – Introduction to why highlighting matters in PowerDMS

1:20 – Where to find and how to use the highlight tool

2:35 – What to highlight and what to avoid

3:32 – Keeping highlights short and purposeful

4:45 – Labeling highlights clearly without overcomplicating

6:12 – Linking highlights to the correct part of the standard

7:48 – Final reminders and a look ahead to Part 2

Key Takeaways:

• Highlight intentionally — less is more.
• Label highlights briefly; avoid copying full bullet text.
• Always check your linked section to make sure it scrolls to the right part of the standard.
• Consistent, thoughtful highlighting improves assessor experience and your file presentation.

Companion document to download: Back to Basics Series: Highlighting Part 1 of 2

Connect with Areaka

🙋‍♀️ Digital Business Card

🌐 Website

🔗 LinkedIn

📘 Facebook

Know someone doing great things in the accreditation world—or want to share your own insights? We’re always looking for experienced Accreditation Managers, assessors, and change-makers to join us on the podcast. Sign up to be a guest or share with a colleague