COMPEL Glossary / evidence-chain
Evidence Chain
An evidence chain is a sequence of related governance artifacts that together tell a complete, traceable story from strategic intent through operational implementation.
What this means in practice
In the COMPEL artifact system, three types of evidence chains ensure auditability: vertical chains trace a governance requirement from its strategic origin (AI Ambition Statement) through risk assessment, design approval, implementation evidence, and deployment authorization; horizontal chains compare equivalent artifacts across multiple AI systems to verify consistency; temporal chains trace the evolution of governance elements across multiple COMPEL cycles. Auditors follow evidence chains to verify that deployed systems are consistent with organizational objectives and governance requirements. Disconnected artifacts -- produced in isolation without cross-references -- fail to create these chains and represent a significant audit readiness gap.
Why it matters
Auditors and regulators follow evidence chains to verify that deployed AI systems are consistent with organizational objectives and governance requirements. Disconnected artifacts produced in isolation without cross-references fail to create traceable chains, representing a significant audit readiness gap. Organizations with complete evidence chains can demonstrate governance rigor confidently, while those without face difficult questions during audits.
How COMPEL uses it
COMPEL defines three types of evidence chains: vertical chains trace requirements from strategic origin through implementation; horizontal chains compare artifacts across AI systems for consistency; temporal chains trace governance evolution across COMPEL cycles. The artifact system is designed to create these chains automatically through cross-referencing requirements. The Evaluate stage audits chain completeness, and the Learn stage refines documentation practices.
Related Terms
Other glossary terms mentioned in this entry's definition and context.