The National Contract Management Association (NCMA), and World Commerce & Contracting (WorldCC), have released the first truly global edition of the Contract Management Standard® (CMS™), Fourth Edition, through the newly established Commerce & Contract Management Institute (CCM Institute). This is major milestone in the evolution of professional contract management.
This edition represents the culmination of years of international collaboration to create a common language and framework for contract management excellence. More than just an update, it is the product of a global effort involving thousands of professionals from every continent, who participated through job task analysis, expert drafting, peer review, and a public comment period.
This global edition reflects a diverse range of perspectives and real-world experiences from across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and the Asia-Pacific regions. The standard is grounded in consensus-based principles approved by a standards consensus body inclusive of global individuals.
“The CMS represents more than a document—it’s a shared language for professionals navigating the complexity of modern contracting,” said Kraig Conrad, CEO of NCMA and CCM Institute Chair. “By bringing together voices from every region, this edition advances our collective ability to drive better outcomes, elevate our profession, and enhance trust in buyer and seller relationships.”
The new CMS delivers a harmonized framework applicable across global markets, integrating international terminology and practical guidance that reflects today’s legal, commercial, and technological realities. This voluntary consensus standard is developed through a process characterized by openness, balance, due process, and consensus, ensuring inclusivity and integrity. It provides access to a neutral, transparent recognized platform designed to benefit professionals across all sectors and jurisdictions.
“This marks a defining moment for the discipline of contract management. For the first time, we have a globally recognized standard that is both cross-industry and cross-function, reflecting the evolving role of contracting in today’s complex world,” said Sally Guyer, CEO of WorldCC. “The Contract Management Standard v4 has been shaped by the insights and expertise of our global community – built by practitioners, for practitioners. It provides a common language and a clear framework to drive better performance, stronger relationships, and more consistent outcomes. This is a standard the world can stand behind.”
To access the new edition CMS and learn more here.
Leadership from NCMA and WorldCC will be highlighting the Fourth Edition at upcoming events, including our launch webinar on 9 July 2025.