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Diamond Certified explains difference between paid ads and earned certifications

American Ratings Corporation's Diamond Certified Resource has published an article distinguishing it from advertising-funded review platforms.

25 September 2026
Diamond Certified explains difference between paid ads and earned certifications

Petaluma, Calif. – American Ratings Corporation, the creator of Diamond Certified Resource, has published a new article detailing the distinctions between paid advertising and earned certifications. The piece outlines how Diamond Certified diverges from advertising-driven review platforms by employing verified customer surveys, stringent qualification standards, credential checks, and ongoing performance monitoring.

Unlike review platforms that rely on advertising revenue, Diamond Certified utilizes its own research methodologies. These encompass customer satisfaction surveys and the collection of original research data. Only companies achieving a customer satisfaction score of 90 or higher and passing all required credential checks can earn the Diamond Certified designation.

The article highlights that many advertising-funded review sites permit non-customers to post reviews and allow companies to selectively solicit feedback from satisfied customers. This practice often leads to an inflation of star ratings, where average scores have become disproportionately high. Diamond Certified aims to provide more reliable information for consumers.

Founded by American Ratings Corporation in 2001, Diamond Certified has pioneered the certification of local businesses based on customer satisfaction. Its research team is experienced and committed to high ethical standards and accurate company ratings. The certification requires companies to maintain high quality and expertise levels continuously.

Original source: prnewswire.com