How the Common OSP Works
How the Common Organic System Plan Works
The Common OSP is designed to be practical, flexible, and usable across the organic community — regardless of operation size or certification pathway.
Step 1 — A Standardized Structure
The Common OSP organizes information by:
Scope (crops, livestock, handling, etc.)
Regulatory relevance
Risk considerations
This ensures that operators answer only the questions relevant to their operation.
Step 2 — Modular, Risk-Based Design
Using skip-logic and modular sections, the Common OSP:
Eliminates irrelevant questions
Reduces confusion
Improves accuracy of responses
Whether on paper or digital, the structure remains consistent.
Step 3 — Shared Use Across the System
The same OSP supports:
Producers completing applications
Inspectors preparing for inspections
Certifiers reviewing compliance
This shared structure reduces variation and improves communication.
Technology Is Optional
The Common OSP can be:
Printed
Used as a PDF
Integrated into certifier systems
Implemented through third-party tools like Quick Organics
Technology adoption is voluntary. Data ownership and privacy depend on the provider’s terms — not the Common OSP itself
