Certificate data privacy and local processing

The practical rule

A reliable document starts with a clear purpose: what it confirms, who issues it, and which facts the recipient should understand at a glance. Choose the document type first, then match the visual style to the event and the issuer’s brand.

Use a realistic recipient and a complete event name during testing, not placeholder text.

Recommended workflow

1. 1

   Define the purpose and the intended audience.

2. 2

   Choose a template appropriate for the formality of the event.

3. 3

   Enter the recipient, programme, date and issuer.

4. 4

   Apply brand colours, logo and signatures without clutter.

5. 5

   Check long names, numbers and optional fields.

6. 6

   Export a test PDF and inspect it at 100% zoom.

Example and decision criteria

For a course, include the programme name, duration, completion date and organiser. For attendance, avoid wording that implies an exam was passed when the document only confirms presence.

Mistakes to avoid

• unclear wording about what is being confirmed
• too many fonts and decorative elements
• missing issuer or date
• showing a score or distinction without source data