Resources for Practicing Ombuds

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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An Overview of Ombuds Confidentiality

Understanding the legal parameters around ombuds confidentiality is an important part of program design. To assist, the International Ombuds Association (IOA) has created a summary of caselaw, statutory, and other established guidance relating to ombuds confidentiality. This summary is based on a number of sources and extensive overview of the most recent case law, statutes, and other sources and material.

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Dual Role and Collateral Ombuds Guidance

Organizations should strive to have a full-time, dedicated ombuds who is trained by the International Ombuds Association (IOA) and adheres to IOA Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. The IOA Standards of Practice state, "Ombuds are mandated to hold no other positions that could compromise their independence. Any non-ombuds duties must not interfere with their primary role, and clear communication regarding their ombuds functions is paramount."

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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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IOA 2023 Cybersecurity Toolkit - Information to Address Litigation Holds

This resource provides information for ombuds to consider regarding how technology impacts confidentiality in your offices and provides templates to address concerns from your organization, including responses to litigation holds. 

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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.

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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. 

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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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If you are not already a member, Learn more and join IOA today!