CertMD
The macro-credential format of the LearnSpec suite.
CertMD defines a digital certification — its description, SVG image, issuer, award requirements, grade levels, and accreditation conditions. Fields map to Open Badges 3.0 for interoperability with existing platforms.
A certification attests mastery of a complete domain, as opposed to a BadgeMD which attests a targeted skill. It may require completing multiple TrackMD learning paths, passing a formal examination, and holding prerequisite badges.
CertMD is a leaf format: it is referenced from a TrackMD via on_completion.certificate.
How it differs from BadgeMD
| Dimension | BadgeMD | CertMD |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Targeted skill | Complete domain |
| Requirements | 1 track or 1 checkpoint | 1 or N tracks + badges + formal exam |
| Grades | Binary (earned / not earned) | Pass / Merit / Distinction |
| Formal exam | No | Yes (optional in v0.1) |
| Credits | No | Yes (CPD, hours, ECTS…) |
| Accreditation | No | Yes (external body) |
| Renewal | Simple expiry | Explicit renewal conditions |
Key principles
| Principle | Description |
|---|---|
| Markdown-first | A .cert.md file is valid Markdown readable in any editor |
| File-native | All metadata lives in the file — no database required |
| SVG-native | The certification is represented by a bakeable SVG file |
| Graceful degradation | The SVG image and description are visible in any standard reader |
| Open Badges compatible | Fields map to Open Badges 3.0 for interoperability |
CertMD inherits its frontmatter and validation rules from the shared Architecture Charter.
Status
CertMD is a draft v0.1, designed alongside BadgeMD and TrackMD.
Next steps
- Read the full Specification.