National Open Court Data Standards: a leadership guide
Adopting National Open Court Data Standards (NODS) is a smart first step for courts looking to improve transparency and efficiency in handling and disseminating data.
NODS provides a set of logical and technical standards that define how courts collect and share information — making it easier to respond to data requests, gauge internal performance, and avoid misinterpretation.
Getting started
Implementing NODS is voluntary and doesn't require an immediate major overhaul. Your court can start by reviewing which data elements you already collect, and those elements can be mapped and aligned if your data definitions are close to the NODS standard.
From there, your court can identify additional data elements that provide the most value and then integrate them into your current case management systems.
Adopting the full standard right away also isn't necessary. Many courts start with one of the seven covered case categories — such as criminal or juvenile — or roll out just a few elements across all case types.
Establishing a data governance team or committee can help your court coordinate the planning and implementation of NODS.
Better data standards build trust
The NODS initiative, led by NCSC and COSCA with support from the Joint Technology Committee, helps state and local courts create consistent and shareable data protocols.
While the Court Statistics Project has long collected and shared aggregate data, NODS offers a standardized framework for case-level data.
These standards can improve transparency, support policymaking, reduce staff burden, and ensure consistent, accurate reporting.
Ultimately, NODS can empower your court to make data more accessible, understandable, and useful for the public, researchers, and justice system stakeholders.
Considerations for implementing NODS
Collaboration level
NODS can be implemented at the court level or the state level. Many states are using NODS to create a statewide data repository.
Inventory existing data
Identify which data elements you already collect and whether definitions match or can be mapped to NODS.
Identify potential additions
Choose which missing data elements would benefit your court's daily operations or fulfill common external data requests.
Plan for integration
Work with your IT and administrative teams to determine how new elements can be added to your systems and business processes and how best to train staff so they can navigate any changes.
Monitor data quality
Create systems to monitor the completeness and accuracy of NODS data elements.
Improve your court data
Our tools, templates, and technical support equip courts with guidance for effectively applying the standards. Let NODS help your court strengthen trust, streamline operations, and support better decision-making.