Communications Management Standard
Our Communications Management Standard is the hallmark of PR excellence
Communication Management Standard (CMS) is available for small and large PR and Communications Agencies and for in house teams. It is led by the organisation, at their own pace, with an online assessment taking no more than 2.5 hours. The assessment covers nine core areas. Areas assessed include leadership, client and campaign strategy, business planning, people and financial management and diversity.
The Communications Management standard (CMS) is the only accreditation developed by the PR and Communication sector for teams and agencies. It is a unique accreditation.
The fee for CMS is £250 for in house teams. For agencies it is from £500 depending on fee income. CMS is an annual accreditation.
Agencies who have CMS can avail of the Matchmaker Service run by PRCA.
To get more information contact carol.magill@prca.org.uk for a free initial call to explain the process and appreciate the benefits of CMS
FAQ
Most frequent questions and answers
Similar to other accreditations, like Investors in People (IIP), CMS is an independent, externally assessed process that helps agencies and in-house teams audit their practices and make improvements. CMS standards, set by PRCA members, reflect best practices, showing stakeholders, clients, and investors that you meet industry standards.
CMS is a process which will improve how you work both with internal and external stakeholders. It puts you in a better place for achieving new business, or in the case of in-house teams demonstrates to your funders that you have sought an external independent view on your work, proof that you are excellent in your development and delivery of communication and public relations. It is key to tenders and business pitches. It offers that added edge to your marketing. Marketing assets are provided to CMS accredited agencies and organisations. CMS accredited agencies get access to the PRCA Matchmaker service at no additional cost.
Established agencies (12+ months) can often complete CMS within 10 weeks. Newer agencies also find CMS valuable as a foundation for growth, using it as a checklist to establish strong practices.
Yes, the Assessor provides remote support, guiding you through the standards and sharing PRCA resources such as webinars, training and research papers. All support and assessments are completed online.
Yes, an international CMS is available for agencies. Corporate PRCA membership is required in your region. Contact carol.magill@prca.org.uk for more information.
No, CMS is only available to corporate teams, either in-house or agency-based.