The FACE® Conformance Program is a multi-step (Verification, Certification, and Registration) process that assess whether a Unit of Conformance (UoC) meets the applicable requirements of a specific edition of the FACE Technical Standard, ensuring portable and reusable software components.
The goal of the FACE Conformance Program is to provide a trusted, accessible, and fair process for achieving FACE Conformance Certification. The certification process confirms the software adheres to the Standard's specifications, such as proper use of interfaces and a defined architecture, which ultimately helps lower costs and increase competition.

Steps in the FACE® Conformance process:
Preparation
A software supplier prepares a "Unit of Conformance" (UoC), which is a piece of software intended for certification. Prior to entering the FACE Conformance Program, the Software Supplier should become familiar with the FACE Conformance Program and the requirements for the FACE Conformance Certification. All information and documents are available via the FACE website. NOTE: Software Suppliers are strongly encouraged to run the applicable version of the FACE Conformance Test Suite (CTS) throughout the preparation process.
To access the FACE Conformance Documents & Tools, click HERE
Verification
A designated FACE Verification Authority (VA) checks that the UoC was developed according to the FACE Technical Standard. This includes:
- Assessing the Verification Evidence provided by the Software Supplier
- Conducting the For-the-Record Verification testing to be run by, or under the direction and witness of, the VA using the approved version of the FACE Conformance Test Suite (CTS) for the particular edition of the FACE Technical Standard
- Issuing the Statement of Verification by the VA
Certification
The FACE Certification Authority (CA) issues a certificate after the verification and completion of legal agreements. This includes:
- Evaluating the conformance certification material provided to the CA by the Software Supplier, including assessment of the Statement of Verification
- Awarding the FACE Conformance Certification by the CA to the Software Supplier
Registration
The certified UoC is added to the official Registry using the following steps:
- Initiating registration by the Software Supplier
- Submitting product description and metadata by the Software Supplier
- Posting the FACE Certified UoC to the FACE Registry
To access The FACE Registry / Library Portal, click HERE
To access a recorded FACE Conformance Program Webinar, click HERE
