(1) Preparation and assessment

Public stakeholders can begin by using the MIMs Plus Compliance Test Bed even cities and communities to: 

• Assess the interoperability readiness of their own digital systems,

• Identify potential technical gaps prior to new solution acquisition,

• Explore how MIMs Plus mechanisms can guide integration and system modernization.

This step allows public entities to take a proactive role in defining and upgrading their digital architecture in line with EU interoperability standards.

(1) Pre-testing

This step enables solution providers to prepare and evaluate their product before formally applying for certification. Vendors access the open-access Compliance MIMs Plus Test Bed which includes test suites aligned with specific MIMs Plus. The test bed generates structured results for self-assessment. Review conformance reports to identify gaps or issues. Implement necessary improvements to align with MIMs Plus technical specifications.

(2) Procurement support

Cities and communities benefit from an Online Procurement Helpdesk, which provides procurement templates per object of procurement with the inclusion of MIMs Plus requirements. These resources aim to reduce complexity, enhance efficiency, promote fair and open procurement, and increase the likelihood of successful deployment.

(2) Applying for certification

To initiate the formal certification process, vendors must compile and submit a certification package comprising:

• A User’s Self-Declaration of Conformity (SDoC) confirming alignment with the relevant MIMs Plus version(s). A standard template or guidelines should be provided by the Certification Body.

• The test results report generated by the MIMs Plus Test Bed.

• A concise technical presentation that contextualizes the results and explains implementation details.

The complete package should be submitted through the designated digital platform provided by the Certification Body (The MIMs Plus Compliance Test Bed should be embedded in the Certification platform). 

(3) Selecting certified solutions

Cities and communities can consult the Public Registry of Certified Products to:

• Identify certified solutions,

• Cross-reference technical metadata (e.g. supported mechanisms, certification version),

• Ensure compatibility with their local systems and strategic digital goals.

This simplifies vendor evaluation and enhances the predictability of integration outcomes.

(3) Certification and Procurement

While full certification provides a strong assurance of conformance, cities and communities may also leverage intermediate outputs (e.g. test reports, SDoC, or technical presentations) during procurement processes — even before certification becomes widespread.

In early adoption phases, the MIMs Plus Compliance Test Bed and supporting documentation can serve as valuable references in procurement decisions, helping cities and communities assess alignment with interoperability goals. Procurement templates may reference MIMs Plus as optional or recommended requirements, supporting a gradual and flexible path toward widespread certification.

(4) Engagement and feedback

Cities and communities are also encouraged to engage actively in the certification ecosystem by:

• Participating as users, observers, or pilot sites in certification initiatives,

• Sharing feedback to improve test bed usability and relevance,

• Contributing to the evolution of MIMs Plus mechanisms based on real-world needs.

This participation strengthens the practicality, legitimacy, and responsiveness of the Certification Scheme.

(4) Verification and Validation by Certification Body

The Certification Body together with the Technical Committee assess the package, checking traceability to MIMs Plus technical specifications, completeness and clarity of evidence, compliance with applicable procedures. Technical evidence can be assessed by a dedicated Technical Board our Team. 

(5) Getting certified

Upon successful validation, the Certification is issued by the Certification Body. This formal document certifies that the solution complies with the specified version(s) of MIMs Plus and its corresponding mechanisms.

A solution may obtain multiple certifications if it conforms to different MIMs Plus mechanisms (e.g. MIM Plus MIM1, MIM  2, MIM  7), allowing for modular recognition of compliance.

(6) Registration

The certified solution is listed in the Official MIMs Plus Solution Registry” maintained by the Certification Body. This listing includes key certification metadata (name and version of the certified product, applicable MIMs Plus version(s) and mechanisms, unique certification ID, date of issuance and (if applicable) expiration or renewal terms. This public registry promotes transparency and serves as a trusted reference for cities, communities, and other stakeholders.