On 14 and 15 October 2025, the introductory training for the revised CAF model External Feedback process, now named CAF Excellence Recognition (CER), took place in Brussels. The training was intended for CAF National Correspondents and External Feedback Assessors from EU member states and partner countries.

The programme was prepared and led by Tihana Puzić (EIPA), Isabelle Verschueren (BOSA), and Nick Thijs (SIGMA), who familiarised participants with the current changes and the new assessment methodology within the revised CER process.

Content and Objectives of the Training

The revised CAF Excellence Recognition process represents an updated form of the existing CAF External Feedback assessment process. The main goal of this change is to increase the attractiveness and clarity of the process, emphasise its contribution to recognising excellence, while maintaining the basic principles of the CAF model.

The revised process introduces several changes—especially a clearer structure, three levels of award (CER*, CER**, CER***), an extension of the award validity to three years, and the simplification of individual assessment steps to make the procedure more understandable and practical for users.

The training also discussed the role of CAF External Feedback Assessors, who provide professional feedback to organisations. Emphasis was placed on the need for not only professional competence and analytical skills but also the ability to lead a constructive dialogue and maintain impartiality throughout the assessment process.

Course and Results of the Training

The two-day training took place in the form of presentations, case studies, simulations, and group discussions. Participants had the opportunity to practically test the individual assessment steps according to the new guidelines and share experiences from CAF model implementation in their countries.

Discussions also focused on the most frequent challenges during self-assessment and the development of action plans, as well as how the External Feedback process can strengthen the quality and credibility of public administration organisations.

CAF Excellence Recognition (CER) initial training (14.10.2025)

CAF Excellence Recognition (CER) initial training (15.10.2025)

Visit to the Local Administration of Anderlecht

The training programme was followed on 16 October 2025 by a professional visit to the local administration of Anderlecht, where participants were welcomed by Bieke Comer, City Council Member. The programme focused on linking the CAF model with internal control management (Barbara Metcalf) and integrating CAF into the area of cybersecurity. The visit provided participants with a practical insight into the application of the CAF model in local self-government and its connection with other quality management processes.

Anderlecht, Local Administration, Salle du Conseil (16.10.2025)

Conclusion

Participants left the training with an overview of the current status and future direction of the CAF Excellence Recognition (CER) process. A 1.5-year transitional period is currently in effect, during which both the original ESV assessment process and the new revised CER process are valid. This period is intended for training assessors and gathering experience from applying the new approach. From 2027 onwards, only the CER process should be in effect, representing a modernised and clearer form of the CAF model’s External Feedback system.

The training was organised in cooperation between BOSA – Strategy and Support, SIGMA, and the European CAF Centre at EIPA.

Updated 13.11.2025