Model Cards & Factsheets Handbook

As artificial intelligence systems move into regulated, high-impact environments, documentation is no longer optional. Model Cards & Factsheets Handbook provides a practical, production-ready guide to documenting AI models in a way that supports governance, compliance, and operational transparency. This book explains what model cards and AI factsheets are, how they differ, and when each should be used. It focuses on real-world implementation, helping teams move beyond academic templates toward documentation that stands up to audits, procurement reviews, and regulatory scrutiny. Readers will learn how to define intended use, document training data provenance, report performance metrics, disclose limitations and bias risks, and capture security and robustness considerations. The handbook includes reusable templates, examples tailored to different stakeholders, and guidance on integrating documentation into modern MLOps pipelines. Key topics include: Core components of effective model cards and AI factsheets Transparency requirements for production AI systems Performance, bias, and limitation disclosures Documentation for internal governance and external oversight Automating model documentation using CI/CD and metadata systems Written for practitioners, this handbook helps organizations scale trustworthy AI practices without slowing innovation.