Agencies’ Views on the Effects of the Council on Accreditation Process

Abstract

While accreditation is widespread, the evidence of its effectiveness is still developing. This exploratory, multiple case study of five children and family service agencies aims to understand agency leaders’ and employees’ views on the effects of undergoing COA accreditation. COA affected processes, including quality improvement practices, policies and procedures, and communication among staff. COA spurred some structural changes, such as decreased caseloads and creation of new staff positions. Some employees were skeptical about accreditation, and the COA experience both increased and decreased morale. COA’s effect on client outcomes was not always prominent. Further research is needed to maximize accreditation’s potential.

Keywords:

• accreditation
• children and family services
• Council on Accreditation
• multiple case study
• quality

Notes

1. ¹This article is one in a series of three articles from a larger study. Agencies’ motivations to pursue accreditation is addressed in Lee (2014). Agencies’ experience with the accreditation process is the focus of Lee (2013).