The initiative’s Phase One work identified seven recommendations to inform the next stages of the work: 

• Develop a learner-centered, nationally recognized credentialing system. 
• Recognize, validate, and credential all learning, as knowledge and skills are acquired throughout a learner’s lifetime.
• Increase the number and types of incremental credentials available to all learners.
• Connect and integrate postsecondary and workforce competencies through the different types of incremental credentialing.
• Provide clear messaging of what someone knows and can do, including transparent assessments.
• Increase efforts to clearly define quality, which will build trust.
• Decrease costs.