Understanding the Open Contracting Data Standard
A comprehensive guide to OCDS and how it's transforming procurement worldwide
What is OCDS?
The Open Contracting Data Standard (OCDS) is a global, non-proprietary data standard that defines a common data model for disclosing data and documents at all stages of the contracting process. It was developed by the Open Contracting Partnership (OCP) to enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public contracting worldwide.
OCDS provides a structured format for publishing information about the planning, procurement, awards, contracts, and implementation of public contracts. By standardizing this information, OCDS makes procurement data more accessible, usable, and valuable for a wide range of stakeholders.
Key Benefits of OCDS
- Enhanced transparency and accountability in procurement processes
- Improved data quality and consistency across procurement activities
- Better analytics and insights through standardized data
- Reduced compliance costs and manual reporting effort
- Increased competition through better information for suppliers
Core Components of OCDS
The OCDS framework consists of several key components that work together to create a comprehensive standard for procurement data:
JSON Schema
A formal specification that defines the structure and format of OCDS data, ensuring consistency and interoperability.
Release Structure
A flexible model for publishing contracting information as discrete "releases" throughout the contracting process.
Record Structure
A mechanism for compiling releases into comprehensive "records" that show the complete history of a contracting process.
Codelists
Standardized lists of codes used to classify and categorize different aspects of contracting data.
The OCDS Contracting Process
OCDS organizes information according to the stages of a contracting process:
Planning
Information about the rationale and planning for a contracting process.
Tender
Details about the tender notice, specifications, and bidding process.
Award
Information about the award decision and the selected supplier(s).
Contract
The signed contract and any subsequent amendments.
Implementation
Data on the implementation of the contract, including payments and progress updates.
Business Case for OCDS Adoption
For Public Sector Organizations
Enhanced Transparency and Trust
- Demonstrate commitment to open government principles
- Build public trust through accessible procurement information
- Reduce corruption risks through increased scrutiny
Improved Efficiency and Value
- Reduce administrative burden through standardized data
- Enable better analysis of spending patterns
- Identify opportunities for cost savings
For Private Sector Organizations
Competitive Advantage
- Demonstrate transparency commitment to stakeholders
- Differentiate from competitors through open practices
- Attract partners who value transparency
Risk Management
- Identify and address compliance risks proactively
- Create comprehensive audit trails
- Detect potential fraud through data analysis
Implementation Approaches
Organizations can implement OCDS in several ways, depending on their existing systems, resources, and goals:
Phased Implementation
Start with basic compliance, publishing key information about tenders and awards, then gradually expand to include more detailed information and additional stages.
System Integration
Integrate OCDS into existing procurement systems through APIs or data exports, mapping internal data structures to OCDS fields and formats.
Platform-Based Approach
Adopt an OCDS-native platform like MyGETS that handles compliance automatically, configured to match organizational processes and requirements.
Success Stories
Organizations around the world have successfully implemented OCDS and realized significant benefits:
Ukraine's ProZorro System
One of the world's most successful OCDS implementations, ProZorro has saved over $6 billion in public funds, increased supplier participation by 50%, and significantly reduced corruption in procurement processes.
Montreal, Canada
The city implemented an OCDS-based open contracting portal that provides comprehensive visibility into city contracts, improving supplier diversity and enhancing public oversight of municipal spending.
Global Pharmaceutical Company
A major pharmaceutical company implemented an OCDS-based procurement data management system to streamline compliance with diverse regulatory requirements and enhance risk monitoring across their global supply chain.
The MyGETS Advantage
MyGETS transforms how organizations implement and benefit from OCDS:
OCDS-Native Architecture
Unlike traditional systems that bolt on OCDS compliance, MyGETS is built from the ground up with OCDS at its core, ensuring complete, accurate data without manual effort.
- Automatic data validation and structuring
- Built-in compliance with all OCDS requirements
- Seamless updates as the standard evolves
Beyond Compliance
MyGETS leverages OCDS data to deliver strategic value beyond basic compliance:
- AI-powered analytics and insights
- Proactive risk monitoring and alerts
- Seamless integration with existing systems
- Enhanced supplier engagement
Ready to Transform Your Procurement?
Discover how MyGETS can help your organization implement OCDS and realize the benefits of structured, standardized procurement data.