Pre-Read Packets in PowerDMS
Why This Just Makes Sense
Pre-read packets take time to build.
For anyone new to the concept—or if your accrediting body calls it something different—a pre-read packet is simply a compilation of preliminary information sent to assessors in advance of their arrival. It helps prepare them for what to expect, including details about your agency, current status, any issues to be addressed, hotel information, contact information, and more.
So once they’re done, the last thing you want is a clunky delivery method.
If you’re still emailing them… there’s a better way.
Uploading and sharing your pre-read packet through PowerDMS makes the entire process smoother—for you and your assessors.
Here’s why.
File size isn’t a problem
Pre-read packets can get big fast—charts, images, multiple pages.
Most email providers cap attachments around 25MB.
PowerDMS allows much larger files, so you’re not compressing, splitting, or troubleshooting delivery issues.
No downloading required
When you email a packet, the assessor clicks and it loads in their email or downloads to their device.
With PowerDMS, it’s already there.
They can view it instantly—no saving, no searching, no clutter.
Access it from anywhere
PowerDMS is web-based, which means assessors can access the packet wherever they are.
In the office, at the hotel, or on the road.
And with mobile access, things like directions or schedules are right at their fingertips when they actually need them.
You can verify access ahead of time
Sharing through PowerDMS means assessors need to log in.
That’s a good thing.
You can confirm ahead of time that everyone has access and troubleshoot any issues before your assessment starts.
You control what they see (and when)
You’re not sending a static document and hoping for the best.
You decide what’s visible and when.
This keeps things clean, organized, and intentional.
It stays flexible
Need to make a last-minute update?
No problem.
When your packet lives in PowerDMS, you’re not resending attachments or worrying about version control.
Everything stays in one place, as a live document.
If you want to take it a step further, there are also tools like Publuu that turn your pre-read packet into a digital, flipbook-style experience.
This gives your packet a more polished feel, allowing assessors to click through it like pages in a book instead of scrolling through a traditional PDF.
The way I use it personally is by embedding the Publuu version into PowerDMS and sharing it with assessors from there.
That way, I get the best of both worlds—an enhanced viewing experience and the ability to control access and visibility through PowerDMS.
You could also share the Publuu link directly via email, but that approach loses some of the control and intentional access that PowerDMS provides.
Here’s a quick example of what this looks like in action:
If you’re building or refreshing your pre-read packet and want to see what others are doing…
I’ve put together a digital bookshelf with 10 real examples from other agencies.
It’s available to paid and trial subscribers inside the Content Hub:
Forms and Templates → Assessment Forms and Examples → Pre-read packet examples
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
