What is Model Card?
A standardized document describing an AI model purpose, data, performance, and limits - the spec sheet for a model.
Model Card: definition
As AI is embedded in decisions, stakeholders need to understand what a model does and does not do. A model card is like a spec sheet or nutrition label for a model: it states the intended use and out-of-scope uses, describes the training data, reports performance (including across subgroups where fairness matters), and lists known limitations and ethical considerations. Model cards support AI governance frameworks and emerging regulation like the EU AI Act.
- Intended use and explicitly out-of-scope uses
- Training data description and known biases
- Performance metrics, including across relevant subgroups
- Limitations, risks, and responsible-use guidance
How Fintra handles it
Fintra AI governance emphasizes transparency about how AI is used in the platform - what it proposes, and the fact that a named human approves anything consequential. For AI models and agents in scope, documenting intended use and limitations, model-card style, supports the accountability that frameworks like the EU AI Act expect, keeping AI decisions explainable rather than opaque.
- Intended use and limitations of AI features documented
- Human-in-the-loop approval for consequential AI actions
- Supports transparency expected by AI-governance frameworks
Worked example
Frequently asked questions
What is the purpose of a model card?
To make an AI model transparent and accountable by documenting its intended use, data, performance, and limitations in a standardized format. This helps users decide whether and how to rely on the model, and supports governance and regulatory expectations around responsible AI.
What should a model card include?
Intended and out-of-scope uses, a description of training data and its biases, performance metrics (ideally broken down across relevant groups), known limitations and risks, and responsible-use guidance. The goal is enough information to use the model appropriately.
How do model cards relate to the EU AI Act?
The EU AI Act imposes transparency and documentation requirements on higher-risk AI systems. Model cards are a practical way to capture much of the information such systems must document - intended use, performance, and limitations - supporting compliance and accountability.
Who writes model cards?
Typically the team that builds or deploys the model, in collaboration with governance and risk functions. For third-party models, the provider often supplies a model card. Either way, the document should be kept current as the model or its use changes.
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