The FDA's goal is to achieve certification as a trustworthy digital preservation repository. Although at this time there are no formal certifying agencies, much progress is being made both nationally and internationally towards this goal.

The FDA was privileged to take part in two efforts to develop metrics and methodologies for assessment.

* The Northeast Document Conservation Center (NEDCC), with funding from the IMLS, is developing a methodology for assessing the digital preservation readiness of cultural heritage institutions. As part of this effort, they conducted on-site digital preservation readiness assessment at selected institutions. They visited FCLA in February 2007. The University of Florida also participated in the role of FDA affiliate.

* The U.K. Digital Curation Centre conducted a Pilot Audit Programme to test an evidence-based approach to evaluating repositories against the RLG/NARA Audit Checklist (now called TRAC, Trustworthy Repositories Audit & Certification: Criteria and Checklist). They conducted an audit and site visit of the FDA in January 2007.