Collection

Algorithmic Transparency Recording Standard Hub

The CDDO and RTA are helping public sector organisations provide clear information about algorithmic tools they use to support decisions.

• From: Central Digital and Data Office and Department for Science, Innovation and Technology
• Published: 5 January 2023
• Last updated: 17 December 2024 — See all updates

The Algorithmic Transparency Recording Standard helps public sector organisations provide clear information about the algorithmic tools they use, and why they’re using them. 

Algorithmic transparency means being open about how algorithmic tools support decisions. This includes providing information on algorithmic tools and algorithm-assisted decisions in a complete, open, understandable, easily-accessible, and free format.

The Hub is made up of:

• The Algorithmic Transparency Recording Standard and template for completing a record
• Guidance on using and completing algorithmic transparency records
• A repository of published transparency records
• Scope and exemptions policy for mandatory use of the Algorithmic Transparency Recording Standard

The Algorithmic Transparency Recording Standard is part of the government’s National Data Strategy. The strategy has a commitment to explore an appropriate and effective way to deliver greater transparency on algorithm-assisted decision making in the public sector. The National AI Strategy reiterated this commitment, with an action to conduct research that will help develop a cross-government standard for algorithmic transparency. 

In the AI white paper consultation response published in February 2024, we announced that use of the ATRS will become a requirement for all central government departments, with an intent to extend this to the broader public sector over time. 

The Central Digital and Data Office (CDDO) and Responsible Technology Adoption Unit (RTA) developed the Standard collaboratively by working with civil society groups and external experts. It’s also informed by a public engagement study run by the RTA and Britain Thinks. 

The Standard has been piloted with a variety of public sector organisations across the UK and the published pilot records are available on our report collection page. Following the pilots, the Standard was updated to reflect feedback, and we plan to review it every 6 months. 

Get in touch with us at [email protected]

Published 5 January 2023
Last updated 17 December 2024 + show all updates

1. 17 December 2024

   Added the 'Scope and exemptions policy for mandatory use of the Algorithmic Transparency Recording Standard'.

2. 7 March 2024

   This page has been updated with a new version of the ATRS template and a link to a new GOV.UK search page for ATRS published records.

3. 5 January 2023

   First published.