> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.data.ca.gov/interagency-data-exchange-idea-guidebook/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.data.ca.gov/interagency-data-exchange-idea-guidebook/master.md).

# Interagency Data Exchange (IDEA) Guidebook

Version 2.0 | Last Updated May 1, 2026.

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The Interagency Data Exchange Agreement is managed by the Statewide Chief Data Officer who sits within the [Office of Data and Innovation](https://innovation.ca.gov)
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## Introduction

This guidebook is designed to help you use the Interagency Data Exchange Agreement (IDEA). IDEA is an umbrella Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that facilitates data exchange between state entities in California.

The IDEA consists of two parts: 

1. one single master agreement with general legal boilerplate language and
2. smaller subordinate agreements for instances of data exchange called “Business Use Case Proposals (BUCP)”, containing specific information such as data type, intended use, etc. 

The master agreement combined with a BUCP will form the complete standardized legally compliant data sharing agreement.

The concept is like the procurement model provided by the California Multiple Award Schedules (CMAS). Vendors sign onto a general master agreement (CMAS) and then state entities produce smaller and more detailed Requests for Offers (RFOs). Both parts together form the complete contract.

![](/files/-MjBDrDtT_49IpWkvRDg)

## Version Notes

| Version | Date       | Name                        | Notes                                                                 |
| ------- | ---------- | --------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| 1.0     | 2021.06.24 | Joy Bonaguro                | Initial release of guidebook                                          |
| 1.1     | 2021.08.05 | Joy Bonaguro                | Added new FAQ on fund transfers                                       |
| 1.2     | 2022.08.24 | Joy Bonaguro                | Gitbook version release, adding and organizing FAQs, adding resources |
| 1.3     | 2023.09.06 | Blake Valenta, Matthew Zhou | Updating flowchart and BUCP development process, adding FAQ questions |
| 2.0     | 2026.05.01 | Alex Nottbohm, Matthew Zhou | Updating BUCP templates, adding FAQ questions, adding resources       |