“We've Always Done It This Way” — Still a Valid Defense?
5 Smart Ways to Reframe It
If you’ve ever conducted or hosted an accreditation assessment, chances are you’ve heard this phrase more than once:
“We’ve always done it this way.”
It often surfaces when assessors or even accreditation managers identify something that appears out of compliance with a standard. For some agencies, it’s a natural defense—especially if that same process was previously accepted or passed in previous assessments without issue. But in the world of accreditation, the goal isn’t to preserve habits. It’s to pursue continuous improvement, even when that means reevaluating long-held practices.
Even if the standard language hasn’t shifted, the interpretation, guidance, and best practices around it often have. What one team overlooked or accepted in the past might be viewed differently by a new team with fresh eyes—or deeper experience. That doesn’t mean you were doing it wrong. But it might mean there’s a better way now.
Sometimes, it’s because assessors are approaching the standard with more context or confidence. Other times, it’s a result of clearer intent being emphasized across the accreditation community. Either way, the feedback is an opportunity—not a failure.
It’s natural. Agencies have poured time, effort, and care into their system. Hearing that something doesn’t meet the mark anymore can feel personal. But instead of defending old habits, let’s reframe the moment with honest reflection:
What can we learn from this feedback?
Does this highlight a blind spot?
Could this be a chance to tighten operations or document practices more clearly?
Don’t rush to defend a practice just because it’s familiar. Instead, revisit the actual language and purpose of the standard. Has it been reworded? Has the interpretation evolved? Understanding the intent will help determine whether your current process truly aligns with compliance.
Are you doing what your written directive says you’re doing? Many noncompliance findings aren’t about poor practices—but about inconsistency. If your team has developed a “better” way that isn’t documented, it’s time to either update the policy or realign the practice.
Mock assessments and internal audits are great, but they’re even better when everyone participates—not just command staff. Encourage open dialogue across all levels of your agency. Build a culture where questioning “how we’ve always done it” is welcomed, not avoided.
Even skilled assessors can overlook things. A clean report in years past doesn’t automatically validate a practice. If something is flagged now, view it as a chance to raise the bar. Let today’s team help improve tomorrow’s performance.
The more connected you are, the more current your compliance practices will be. Whether it’s through regional working groups, training conferences, or the Accreditation Academy Content Hub, staying in the loop helps ensure you’re not left behind as standards and expectations evolve.
Accreditation is built on the foundation of transparency, accountability, and growth. When you hear, “We’ve always done it this way,” ask whether that way still serves your agency, your community, and your commitment to excellence.
Because if it does—great.
And if it doesn’t—this is your opportunity to find a better path forward.
Who do you know that could benefit from these accreditation-friendly tips and resources? Consider sharing this link with a colleague so they can sign up:https://www.accreditationacademy.net/signup
Areaka P. Jewell
Accreditation Academy
areaka@accreditationacademy.net
(305) 360-1075