• Cobalt Home
• Executive Endorsement
• Pre-Screening / Application
  
• Award and Prizes
• Creating the Cobalt Award
• Terms and Conditions
• Winner Profiles

Is your organization an example of excellence in managing records and information and worthy of the ARMA International Cobalt Award? Here's how to find out... 

Step 1: Prequalification

Start by answering 12 prequalification questions. Each is designed to see if your organization has what it takes to win the coveted Cobalt Award. If you feel your organization is up to the challenge based on these prequalification questions, you're ready to move on to the formal application process. If it doesn't, you may want to reassess your program (see related resources) and then try again.

Step 2: The Application

The formal application is online and consists of approximately 120 questions. Your answers to these questions will provide the judges with an accurate picture of how your organization values and implements excellence in managing its information assets. The questions are based on current standards and best practices, and have been developed and reviewed by experts in the many facets of managing records and information. (Note: a minimal application fee will be assessed.)

Application period: March 1 through April 15.

Prequalification
Your response to the application questions will be held in strict confidence, as you would expect from ARMA International. Even though the application process does not require you to divulge sensitive information, all individuals involved in administering and judging the applications are required to sign non-disclosure agreements.

Step 3: Judging the Entries

Applications will be judged by a panel of qualified experts in the key aspects of managing records and information. From the online applications, the judges will identify the top finalists. The final stage is an on-site visit to each of the finalist organizations by one or more judges to assess the program in action.

The winner will be notified by August 1 to ensure appropriate representation and promotion at the upcoming ARMA International annual conference.