Data Foundation Welcomes OPM's Modernized Federal Workforce Data Platform

WASHINGTON, D.C., January 8, 2026 – The Data Foundation today welcomed the launch of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management's (OPM) Federal Workforce Data (FWD) platform at data.opm.gov, which delivers on commitments made by OPM in July 2025 to improve public access to federal workforce data. The new platform represents meaningful progress in transparency and usability during a period of significant changes across federal data infrastructure.

"Federal workforce data serves a vital public function—helping Americans understand the capacity and composition of their government," said Nick Hart, President and CEO of the Data Foundation. "Modernizing FedScope was long overdue, and OPM's new platform demonstrates that collected data should be useful, not just available. The improvements in timeliness, accessibility, and analytical functionality represent exactly the kind of modernization federal data systems need."

The new FWD platform launched publicly on January 7, and features monthly updates of employment, accessions, and separations data with enhanced metadata and downloadable record-level datasets that enable deeper analysis by researchers, policymakers, and the public. The platform includes November 2025 data from the Enterprise Human Resources Integration (EHRI) Status, Dynamics, and Payroll data feeds, with historical data extending back to FY 2005 now available through consistent structured monthly text files.

Notably, the system provides easy-to-use analytics and visualization tools that were not readily accessible in the previous FedScope interface, while maintaining appropriate privacy protections through OPM's data release policy. OPM has committed to releasing new data and features each month, ensuring continued improvements to the platform.

"This platform builds on years of foundational work and delivers what the public and policymakers need most right now—timely, reliable data to understand how the federal workforce is evolving,” said Ted Kaouk, Senior Fellow at the Data Foundation and former OPM Chief Data Officer who developed the agency’s first data strategy. “When government makes its data truly usable, it strengthens accountability and enables better decisions at every level."

These improvements come at a key moment for federal data infrastructure. As documented in the Data Foundation's recently released 2025-in-Review report, federal evidence and data capacity underwent significant changes throughout 2025, making timely, accurate workforce data increasingly important for understanding government operations and accountability.

"During periods of organizational transition, accessible data becomes even more essential," Hart added. "OPM's new platform provides the kind of transparency Americans need to track changes in federal employment and make informed assessments about their government's capacity to deliver services."

The Data Foundation will continue reviewing the system's capabilities and working with federal agencies to advance open data standards that serve the public interest.

About the Data Foundation

The Data Foundation is a non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C. that champions the use of open data and evidence-informed public policy to make society better for everyone. As a nonpartisan think tank, we conduct research, collaborative thought leadership, and advocacy programs that advance practical policies for the creation and use of accessible, trustworthy data. Our activities proactively address emerging data-related needs in the country with the goal of devising realistic solutions, accelerating policy coordination, and advancing innovation. The Data Foundation is recognized by Candid Guidestar with the Platinum Seal of Transparency and received 4-Stars from Charity Navigator. To learn more, visit www.datafoundation.org. (LEI: 254900I43CTC59RFW495)

Media Contact:

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