PROTIP!

As an evolving ecosystem, the digital credential language is, in many ways, still in its infancy. For this reason, it is important that all key players begin this project with shared definitions for concepts and key terms used in digital credentialing. The digital credential project leader can facilitate discussions with the employer partner and training partner to identify agreed-upon terminology (i.e., wallet, credential or badge, tag, competency level, etc…) and might consider creating a glossary of terms and definitions for partner reference throughout the project.

At the time of this playbook’s release, The LER Accelerator Coalition’s (2024) LER Accelerator Inventory presents numerous resources that are relevant to guiding discussions regarding current definitions (some standardized/universal where they exist) of digital credentialing program keywords. In addition, Credential Engine  offers a credential registry and credential finder tool that documents job competencies, learning and employment outcomes, as well as credential descriptors using standardized transparent identifiers (CTIDs).