The Standard
How certification works
THM evaluates evidence of human involvement in the production of a defined written work and issues a certification decision based on the applicable standard.
01
Submit a defined work
A writer or publisher submits a specific written work — an article, newsletter issue, essay, or other defined submission — along with supporting documentation of the creation process. Certification applies to the work submitted, not to all future work by that creator.
02
Evidence is reviewed
THM reviews the submitted evidence against the applicable certification standard. The review evaluates documentation of the creation process — drafts, revision history, research materials, editorial records, and other relevant evidence. Certification is based on evidence, not unsupported claims.
03
A certification decision is issued
THM issues a certification decision based on the evidence reviewed and the applicable standard. The certification record includes the designation, scope, date issued, and current status. Certification decisions are recorded and maintained.
04
The certification is publicly checkable
Once the verification system launches, anyone can check a THM certification using its certification ID. The public record will show the certification designation, scope, date issued, and current status. Submitted evidence is treated as confidential and is not disclosed publicly.
Disputes and appeals
Certification decisions can be challenged.
Every applicant may appeal a denial, a classification, a suspension, or a revocation. Appeals are free. Full dispute and appeal procedures are published in the certification standards.
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