Understanding EDPA Trust & Transparency Certification
In the exhibits industry, the Experiential Designers and Producers Association (EDPA) is the leading collaborative agency aimed at improving and advancing the industry as a whole.
One of the many ways that the EDPA achieves these objectives is through a comprehensive third-party supplier certification process which assesses member companies on dimensions such as trust, transparency, ethics, industry participation, fiscal responsibility and environmental stewardship.
Just fifteen exhibit design/build agencies that have passed the rigorous requirements of this certification process. We’re proud to say that since 2014, Acer has achieved this notable distinction, which is “…awarded to companies who meet the EDPA’s stringent standards for business practices and is shared amongst only the highest-qualified exhibit designers and producers in the industry.”
What does it mean to you, the exhibitor?
The certification is designed to impart more transparency and consistency during RFP processes for potential clients, proving trust and reliability.
According to the EDPA: “This certification bestows the confidence that you are working with an elite company and that your resources and time are being used as efficiently as possible. The EDPA Certification assures prospective clients that the member company adheres to industry standards and best practices relating to ethical business practices, industry experience and participation, fiscal responsibility and operational methodology. “
Through this process, the EDPA is performing the valuable service of initially vetting and verifying the legitimacy and stability of certified exhibit houses, saving you time, effort and cost during RFP activities.
What is assessed in the certification process?
The certification and subsequent renewal processes are performed by iCompli, an independent third-party assurance firm. Multiple dimensions are examined to varying levels. Some of the higher level aspects of certification include validation of:
- Ethical business practices
- Industry experience and participation
- Fiscal responsibility
- Environmental stewardship
- Sound operational methodology
- Client references
- Safety standards
- Quality control processes
- Facilities and capabilities
- Organizational structure
- Disaster recovery plans
- Confidentiality policies
- Ownership status
- Financial statements
- Insurance
- Industry awards
- Investments
Recently, EXHIBITOR Magazine published an special supplement highlighting the EDPA and its 65-year legacy. This supplement includes an in-depth review of the EDPA certification process, which can be accessed on page 30 of this PDF file.
Acer is proud to continually serve our clients with a trust and transparency certified level of service!