Welcome to IFTS Online
What is IFTS Online?
IFTS Online is an assessment process that measures how effectively public sector organisations manage the re-use of their information. It is also a valuable tool for public sector organisations to demonstrate that they are meeting their legal responsibilities under the Regulations on the Re-use of Public Sector Information 2005 (referred to as the 'PSI Regulations' within the assessment process). IFTS Online is available to all public sector organisations.
What does it involve?
You will be asked to answer eight questions with either a "yes" or "no" answer. You will need to provide evidence to support your answers. This will include giving information about:
- how you explain what information is available for re-use;
- situations where you might not permit re-use of information;
- your organisation's policies on re-use;
- website and publications copyright notices;
- how you explain the charges for re-use;
- the standard terms and conditions of re-use;
- staff are aware of the policies and guidance; and
- your complaints policy
Once you have submitted your answers, we will review these and the additional evidence you have provided within 20 working days. We will then email you a tailored report which will show your results, recommendations, advice and further sources of information. If the information you provide shows that you meet the IFTS Online standard, you will be IFTS Online Assessed and will be able to use the logo to demonstrate your commitment to information fair trading.
How long will it take?
It should take between an hour to an hour and a half to complete. Please note that sessions cannot be saved so you should ensure you have everything you need to hand, using the list above as a guide. You may also find it useful to read the guidance and best practice advice in the PSI section of this website before you start.
Who should complete the assessment?
If your organisation is already actively permitting people to re-use information and has an established licensing process, then the person responsible for this activity should complete the assessment. If you do not have such processes in place then somebody responsible for information policy or Freedom of Information is the best person to complete the assessment.
Further information
IFTS Online is designed to be easy to use. Much of the terminology and many of the issues may be new to you. However, you are encouraged to complete the whole assessment or as much of it as you can as the tailored report will help you to identify those areas which need more attention.
If at any point you have a question or a problem with the assessment please get in touch with the Standards team on 020 7276 5208.