Description
The Foundation Model Transparency Index (FMTI) is a comprehensive assessment tool designed to evaluate the transparency of foundation model developers. Launched in 2023, the FMTI scores major companies such as Google and OpenAI based on 100 transparency indicators. The index aims to provide a clearer understanding of how these companies disclose information about their models and practices, thereby promoting greater accountability in the AI ecosystem.
In its latest edition, the FMTI has updated its indicators to reflect the current state of AI development. This includes raising the bar for several indicators to ensure that the information disclosed is not only available but also useful. The 2025 report scores 13 companies, including notable first-time assessments of DeepSeek, Alibaba, xAI, and Midjourney. The findings reveal a concerning trend: the mean score for transparency has decreased by 17 points compared to the previous year, although it remains 4 points higher than in the inaugural 2023 edition.
Key findings from the 2025 report indicate that IBM continues to lead with the highest score of 95, a significant achievement compared to its competitors. However, many companies, including OpenAI and Meta, have seen substantial drops in their scores, highlighting a reduction in transparency across the board. The report also notes that while some companies have become less transparent, others, like Writer and IBM, have improved their scores significantly.
The FMTI is not just a scoring system; it is a collaborative effort involving an advisory board that guides the index team on how to measure and communicate transparency effectively. The board's insights are crucial for refining the indicators and ensuring that the index remains relevant in a rapidly evolving AI landscape. By focusing on organizational practices and the information companies disclose, the FMTI aims to foster a culture of transparency that benefits developers, policymakers, and the public alike.
Highlights
Transparency Indicators: 100
Companies Scored: 13
Highest Score: 95
Mean Score: 41
First-time Scores: 4 Companies
Year Established: 2023
Latest Edition: 2025
Advisory Board: Yes
Use It For
- Transparency Assessment
- Benchmarking
- Policy Development
- Research
- Corporate Accountability
