Introducing the VB selection model: How SLCP empowers facilities to uphold data quality
As the data owners in the SLCP process, facilities play a key role in ensuring the quality and credibility of SLCP data.
To strengthen this role, SLCP is introducing a new Verifier Body (VB) selection model, launching in Q1 2026, that helps facilities make more informed, performance-driven choices when selecting VBs.
Why are we making this change?
Previously, facilities have had the freedom to choose from all available VBs in their country or region. Based on feedback from brands, signatories, and other stakeholders, SLCP is implementing a new approach to VB selection.
Facilities no longer need to gather information on VB performance themselves, as was done under the previous model. Now, all the necessary information is available directly in the selection list, providing easy data access and greater transparency.
What’s new in the VB selection model?
Data-driven VB selection list: With the new model, facilities will choose from a pre-approved list of VBs. The pre-approved list is technology-driven, with an algorithm that filters and ranks VBs based on their quality performance score.
Displaying VB quality scores information: In the pre-approved list, facilities will be able to see information on the quality performance of each VB. The VB quality information will determine if a VB is included on the VB selection list. (High performing VBs will always be displayed, while Medium and Low performing VBs will have a lower chance to be displayed in the selection list).
VB rotation requirement: Facilities will no longer be allowed to select the same VB in consecutive years (except in rare situations where alternatives aren't available). This ensures diverse perspectives and helps avoid potential conflicts of interest.
How does the VB quality scoring model work?
A VB’s performance plays a key role in determining if the VB appears on the facility’s selection list . The VB Quality Score is how SLCP determines high performing VBs.
The VB Quality Score ranges from 0 to 5, with 5 being the highest. It’s based on three key components:
VB Management System Scores
Weighted Average of Verifier Quality Scores
Issue-to-Verification Ratio (i.e., how often quality issues are reported over verifications performed)
Most importantly, the model includes penalties for specific types of mistakes with increased penalties for repeat mistakes, which means that consistent errors will significantly lower a VB’s score. This system rewards continuous improvement, and it ensures top-performing VBs make it onto the selection list.
Why do these changes matter?
This new selection model shifts the focus to accountability. When facilities choose VBs based on performance, it encourages all VBs to improve their quality of verifications and consistency in performance. The result is better data quality, greater transparency, reduced bias and conflict of interest, and increased trust in SLCP assessments.
What’s next?
We will conduct a pilot in one country to test the model. The new selection model will be fully implemented in Q1 of 2026.
Already, the model was presented to VBs during the VB General Calibration in June 2025, and approved by the Data Quality and Integrity Technical Advisory Committee.
If you have any questions or require further clarification, please reach out to SLCP via our Helpdesk.
