Partner spotlight
How the Microsoft ACTS and OCP partnership drives mutually beneficial growth.
When Microsoft ACTS (Advanced Cloud Transparency Services) and Open Contracting Partnership (OCP) began our collaboration in May 2022, we shared a common goal: to increase transparency in government organizations worldwide. So we paired our complementary resources with a willingness to learn. The result is a partnership making remarkable strides toward our objectives. The partnership’s evolution also yields a wealth of information on how to collaborate effectively. In recognition of these efforts, we’d like to take a moment to acknowledge our shared journey and how we got to where we are today.
Complementary strengths and a shared vision
OCP is a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing efficiency, fairness, and visibility in the government procurement process. Their robust procurement data models help drive their mission—but require technology to leverage them. That’s where ACTS steps in. Our machine learning and AI capabilities harness the power of data-driven solutions to enable that crucial transparency.
The aligned missions and complementary strengths of ACTS and OCP make the companies intuitive and powerful partners. “OCP has the data expertise. ACTS knows the technology, what’s evolving, and the larger landscape. So when we come together, we build stronger solutions because our different strengths complement each other,” says Justine Thompson, a Program Management Director for Microsoft ACTS.
The partnership makes even more sense when considering the size of this shared vision. “Effecting change on a global scale is complex, and working together makes the shared goal realistic and speeds our implementation,” says Norm Hodne, Senior Program Director for Microsoft ACTS.
Lindsey Marchessault
Pictured above: Lindsey Marchessault, Director of Data and Engagement at OCP
Partnerships are the key to success
Because ACTS works globally, we rely on partner organizations with on-the-ground connections and an in-depth understanding of a government’s local language, customs, and unique challenges to implement our technology. OCP’s standardized data model provides that exact framework.
OCP’s data expertise makes them a valuable ally when creating new features and monitoring success. For instance, ACTS is currently in the process of creating a new feature to manage risk in the procurement process. Throughout the process, OCP has provided valuable input on the best data sources. The organization also measures the impact of solutions once they’re deployed—another win-win.
Trusted partners in action
Our work entails a give-and-take playing out on both sides as we continue to learn and grow together and separately. This win-win dynamic reinforces our mutually beneficial partnership.
Our process is iterative by nature: a constant feedback loop of research, sharing, and expansion on preexisting goals. While this method sets up a beneficial cycle of steady evolution, it also means that progress doesn’t necessarily occur in a straight line. However, some exciting developments are worth mentioning. A successfully deployed proof of concept in the Dominican Republic has seen positive results, and a similar use case in Ecuador is also bearing fruit.
ACTS is proud of its deepening partnership with OCP. As Hodne says, “Overall, it’s been very beneficial for both of us. And we will only grow stronger with time.”