Resources for Practicing Ombuds

Ombuds Tools

IOA Standards of Practice & Code of Ethics
An Overview of Ombuds Confidentiality
Dual Role and Collateral Ombuds Guidance
Litigation Hold Toolkit
The Value of an Organizational Ombuds: Ally Video Project
IOA Practice and Compensation Reports
Ombuds Office Accessibility
Graduate Program Directory Listing
IOA Topical Practice Guides- For Purchase
Member-Only Resource Center

Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics

The IOA Standards of Practice are based upon and derived from the ethical principles stated in the IOA Code of Ethics. Each Ombuds office should have an organizational Charter or Terms of Reference, approved by senior management, articulating the principles of the Ombuds function in that organization and their consistency with the IOA Standards of Practice.

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Litigation Hold Toolkit

IOA has provided detailed guidance for ombuds facing litigation holds. Read more and download the complete toolkit.

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The Value of the Organizational Ombuds Role: The Ally Project

We asked CEOs and other C-Suite leadership from Pinterest, Boston Children's Hospital, and AllianceBernstein about the value and impact of their organizational ombuds program.  

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Ombuds Office Accessibility

As ombuds practitioners, we are obligated to serve all members of our organization’s communities. Such members undoubtedly include individuals with disabilities. Even though individuals with disabilities constitute 10 percent of the U.S. population, they may be underserved by ombuds offices.

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IOA Job Board

The IOA Job Board is designed to promote the profession and support skilled ombuds practitioners in finding jobs.

Visit the Job Board

Ombuds-Related Networks and Groups

Connect with Ombuds Professionals in Other Communities.

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IOA Practice & Compensation Survey Reports

Biannual IOA Practice & Compensation Surveys provide an important snapshot of the contemporary field of organizational ombuds based on responses from practitioners. Collected every other year by a team of researchers, the survey data allow organizational ombuds to position ourselves effectively as a profession over time. The survey data also permit us to offer targeted support to our members. Practice & Compensation Reports are available to IOA members only, free of charge. 

View Reports (Members Only)
Complete the 2025 Survey

Member-Only Resource Center

IOA Members have access to countless other resources in our member-only Resource Section in the Member Center and in member-only CommUnity.  

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