SalonFlow

FAQ

FAQ: How to interpret SalonFlow calculations correctly

IMPORTANT: Rules and ongoing development

I build SalonFlow based on the current official rules of the relevant associations (especially FIAP and PSA). The calculations and checklists are designed to behave consistently and to reflect these rules within the scope of the data entered by the user.

At the same time:

  • association rules may change over time,
  • SalonFlow is a living project and the app is actively developed,
  • algorithms, checklists, and edge-case handling may be continuously refined through updates.

1) Does SalonFlow award FIAP/PSA titles?

No. SalonFlow does not award titles and cannot do so. Titles are awarded exclusively by the relevant associations (FIAP, PSA, etc.) through their official processes.

SalonFlow is an archive and calculation aid that helps you:

  • record results,
  • keep data consistent,
  • and navigate complex rules and requirements.

2) Does SalonFlow replace the official FIAP/PSA systems?

No. SalonFlow is your personal database and verification tool—not an official register.

It does not replace association systems and does not serve as an “official authority” or as a basis that associations would rely on.

3) Are the calculations in the app “official”?

The calculations are designed to follow the current rules of the associations, but the result is only as accurate as the data you enter.

SalonFlow calculates deterministically:

what you enter → is what it calculates.

The app does not guess, “fill in” missing data, or add anything that isn’t in your records.

4) Does “Garbage in, garbage out” apply?

Yes—and it’s intentional.

SalonFlow is built for precise record-keeping, so:

  • correct data = reliable calculation
  • inaccurate data = inaccurate calculation

Recommended practice:

  • enter salon + patronage + country correctly,
  • keep consistent work titles (same title = same work),
  • store supporting documents (catalogs/certificates) so everything is traceable.

5) Why does the app show a different status than my notes/expectations?

Most common reasons:

  • the salon isn’t marked with the correct patronage (FIAP/PSA),
  • the salon country is entered incorrectly,
  • acceptance vs. award is mixed up,
  • inconsistent work titles (e.g., “Harmony” vs. “Harmony ”),
  • for PSA Stars, only eligible/verifiable exhibitions are counted, so the result may differ from your “total acceptances.”

6) How exactly does the app calculate FIAP progress?

In simple terms:

  • FIAP calculations include only results recorded from salons with FIAP patronage (or FIAP code),
  • results are evaluated against the FIAP target title you selected,
  • the app uses concepts such as unique countries and unique works, and depending on the title type it tracks either “portfolio” requirements or “awarded” requirements (where awards are key).

The output is always transparent: progress + checklist + “what’s missing”.

7) How exactly does the app calculate PSA progress (titles vs. Stars)?

PSA is handled as separate systems because they follow different rules:

  • PSA Distinctions (e.g., QPSA/EPSA…): progress is calculated from PSA-relevant results according to the goal you selected.
  • PSA Star Ratings: a separate system where only certain types of results/exhibitions may count. That’s why your “total acceptances” can be higher than the number shown in the Stars context.

Again: the app only calculates what is entered and marked as PSA-relevant.

8) Does SalonFlow replace PSA verification/confirmation?

No. Some PSA processes may require an external verification step outside the app. SalonFlow helps you keep results clear, consistent, and ready—but official confirmation always follows PSA rules.

9) What are “non-salon” competitions and why does the app support them?

Not all competitions are patronaged salons. That’s why SalonFlow also lets you record:

  • your own competitions, challenges, club events,
  • or any results without patronage.

These records are part of your archive, but they do not count toward FIAP/PSA progress unless they are marked with the relevant patronage.

10) Does the app support other patronages (GPU, IAAP…)?

SalonFlow already allows you to record competitions beyond FIAP/PSA (including custom patronage).

Expanding calculation rules for other patronages (GPU, IAAP, etc.) is planned gradually—the app is data-ready for it, but these rules will be added only when they are reliably defined and implemented.

11) What if FIAP/PSA rules change?

Association rules may evolve. SalonFlow is updated over time to respond to these changes. Still, the official process and the association’s decision are always what matters.

12) What is SalonFlow best for?

  • Archive: salons, results, attachments, and history in one place.
  • Orientation: quickly see what’s missing to reach your goal.
  • Control: the checklist helps reveal weak points (countries, works, awards…).
  • Quick overview: Dashboard + widget with key information.