HOW ARE THE STANDARDS ORGANIZED?

COA standards are organized in a logical framework that supports thorough organizational assessment and standards implementation. This positive outcomes framework integrates information on three levels (see example 1).

Purpose Standard

The purpose standard states achievable outcomes for the area of practice and expresses the overall aim of the practices included in a section.

Core Concept Standard

Every section is comprised of several sub-sections that begin with a core concept standard. Core concept standards describe in measurable terms program components that support the program's purpose. The agency's implementation of all core concepts contributes to the achievement of the purpose standard.

Practice Standard

Practice standards contain detailed practices that contribute to meeting the core concept standards, and, in turn, the purpose standard. Practice standards are important in the formation of strong organizational operation and service delivery, and are the most specific standards for which the agency shows evidence of implementation. Except when a sub-section is comprised of a stand-alone core concept, it contains several of these specific practice standards.