Executive Summary CAMA Software Certification Process

May 26, 2026
Subject: Executive Summary - CAMA Software Certification Process

The State Tax Commission (STC) has established standards and requirements for software certification for Computer Assisted Mass Appraisal (CAMA) software. Under the standards established by the STC, the Michigan Department of Treasury (Treasury) will implement and administer the certification process to ensure the integrity of the State’s property tax base, the accuracy of local valuation data, and the production of reliable equalization studies. Local units and equalization departments will be expected to use only CAMA software that has been registered with and approved through the certification process.

The certification framework includes a three-tier approval pathway:

1. Temporary Approval

Granted upon review of basic technical requirements and the vendor’s ability to meet initial standards. A vendor granted temporary approval will proceed with structured testing.

2. Conditional Approval / Structured Testing Process
Software will undergo verification by simulating a full assessing and equalization cycle. Vendors will be provided with instructions, data, and specific scenarios to process through MMSVP using their software. Treasury will inspect, evaluate, and audit the software's forms and filings to confirm compliance with statutes, policies, data standards, and filing procedures. Local units and equalization departments are still responsible for meeting the deadlines for all State required filings during the structured testing process. As such, Treasury recommends local units maintain their existing CAMA software until after the testing has been completed and the software has been awarded full approval.  

3. Full Approval
Awarded when software successfully demonstrates full compliance throughout the Structured Testing. 

Approval applies to the specific tested software version.

Recertification is required in alignment with the PA- 660 audit cycle, or when major product upgrades or enhancements occur.

Vendors must remain compliant with all statutes, form updates, legislative changes, assessor manual updates, and API changes within 60 calendar days of notification (including 10 business days for UAT).

Non Compliance and Corrective Action
If the CAMA software does not meet evaluation criteria during the structured testing or materially fails to meet State standards after Full Approval has been granted, the vendor will be required to complete a Corrective Action Plan. During this period, the vendor will be expected to work collaboratively with the local unit and the Department of Treasury to promptly address and resolve identified issues. To qualify for recertification, vendors must demonstrate continued good standing, including consistent adherence to State standards and prompt correction of any identified issues.

Ongoing Reporting
As the certification framework is implemented, Treasury will continue developing the detailed evaluation tools, vendor guidance materials, and pilot processes necessary to support successful adoption. Treasury will provide regular updates to the State Tax Commission regarding certification progress, vendor standing, standard test outcomes, and any required corrective action activities.