1. Define scope
Identify the organization, business unit, program or practice being assessed and the exact applicable scheme.
Assessment methodology
A status should be explainable from requirement to record.
GFB uses a scheme-based approach: the requirements, evidence basis, review method, decision rule, validity period and public-verification status should be defined before an organization can hold a governed designation or certification.
2. Collect evidence
Request only the policies, records, controls, disclosures and operational evidence required by the scheme.
3. Review
Evaluate the evidence against documented criteria and record gaps, conditions and review notes.
4. Decide
Issue, condition, decline or defer status according to the scheme's decision rules.
5. Verify & renew
Publish approved current status where appropriate and apply surveillance, expiry or renewal requirements.
Public verification is the evidence layer.
Only statuses actually issued and approved for publication should appear in the registry.