CoST, The Infrastructure Transparency Initiative, has created and published an updated version of its Infrastructure Transparency Index (ITI) manual in English and Spanish. The ITI measures the level of transparency in public infrastructure and the quality of processes that enable transparency. As well as evaluating regional infrastructure transparency, this resource can be used to better understand and strengthen transparency in different institutions.

The updated manual reflects CoST’s increased experience in implementation of the ITI across several countries at a national and sub-national level, with international best practice. The manual includes the methodology and dimensions of the index and preparation and evaluation of the index. This includes considerations around the evaluation team and evaluation period, materials and logistics. The document also includes objectives of the ITI, such as tracking and promoting progress and peer learning, and principles, such as impartiality, accuracy and being informative.

The ITI has led to vital changes across world regions, such as increased data publication by internationally recognised data standards, such as the Open Contracting for Infrastructure Data Standard (OC4IDS); the creation of data platforms; improved policies and frameworks; increased social accountability, with improved engagement and training with residents and the media.

The manual supports the creation of an index, supporting comparative analysis of different procuring entities. This can be used outside of CoST’s membership.

For questions about implementing the ITI, please contact CoST@infrastructuretransparency.org.

CoST, the Infrastructure Transparency Initiative (CoST) a leading global non-profit improving transparency, participation and accountability in infrastructure to deliver quality infrastructure that improves lives and strengthens economies. Stay up to date with our latest work through our newsletter and our social media channels: LinkedIn, Instagram, X/Twitter and Facebook.

The Infrastructure Transparency Index (ITI) Manual is a comprehensive tool designed to assess the transparency and quality of public infrastructure processes at both national and sub-national levels. This manual, a product of collaborative design and informed by international best practices and lessons learned, aims to equip stakeholders with high-quality information that enhances transparency and optimizes the management of public infrastructure.

The manual outlines a methodology for deriving scores for procuring entities within a national or sub-national context. These individual scores contribute to the creation of an Index, facilitating a comparative analysis of the evaluated procuring entities. The methodology is rooted in the conditions that foster transparency in the sector, as well as the transparency-related practices implemented in recently completed infrastructure projects.

The ITI Manual adopts a broad and pragmatic approach to transparency. It extends beyond the conventional focus on access to information, incorporating related enablers and capacities. This includes citizen participation, which generates public value through improved access to information.

Document available in spanish.

The Infrastructure Transparency Index (ITI) Manual is a comprehensive tool designed to assess the transparency and quality of public infrastructure processes at both national and sub-national levels. This manual, a product of collaborative design and informed by international best practices and lessons learned, aims to equip stakeholders with high-quality information that enhances transparency and optimizes the management of public infrastructure.

The manual outlines a methodology for deriving scores for procuring entities within a national or sub-national context. These individual scores contribute to the creation of an Index, facilitating a comparative analysis of the evaluated procuring entities. The methodology is rooted in the conditions that foster transparency in the sector, as well as the transparency-related practices implemented in recently completed infrastructure projects.

The ITI Manual adopts a broad and pragmatic approach to transparency. It extends beyond the conventional focus on access to information, incorporating related enablers and capacities. This includes citizen participation, which generates public value through improved access to information.