About OGIS
Mission:
As the Federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Ombudsman, OGIS resolves FOIA disputes, identifies methods to improve compliance with the statute, and educates our stakeholders about the FOIA process.
Goals:
Our goals align with the National Archives and Records Administration's (NARA's) 2018-2022 Strategic Plan(February 2018)
We strive to:
- Provide quality ombudsman services to all. - Supports NARA Goal 1: Make Access Happen; NARA Goal 2: Connect with Customers
- Provide dispute resolution services to FOIA requesters and Federal agencies. - Supports NARA Goal 1: Make Access Happen; NARA Goal 2: Connect with Customers
- Improve our understanding of FOIA administration by expanding our review of FOIA policies and procedures. - Supports NARA Goal 1: Make Access Happen; NARA Goal 2: Connect with Customers
- Identify and communicate methods and strategies to improve FOIA compliance. - Supports NARA Goal 1: Make Access Happen; NARA Goal 2: Connect with Customers
- Manage OGIS programs to ensure OGIS fulfills its mission. - Supports NARA Goal 1: Make Access Happen; NARA Goal 3: Maximize NARA’s Value to the Nation
- Increase our impact through outreach, education, and training. - Supports NARA Goal 1: Make Access Happen; NARA Goal 2: Connect with Customers
- Build OGIS staff expertise through targeted professional development. - Supports NARA Goal 4: Build our Future through our People
Values:
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Transparency: Access to agency records improves public understanding of the government’s actions.
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Collaboration: An open and inclusive FOIA process based on respect and communication benefits the FOIA community
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Effectiveness: Our authorities and resources improve the administration of FOIA.
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Learning: Listening to stakeholders and improving understanding of FOIA helps us fulfill our mission.
Vision:
Our vision is a FOIA process that works for all stakeholders.