Understanding OSC TestLab

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OSC TestLab is a dedicated environment for solution-focused testing in Ontario’s capital markets.

Test design process

The process for designing a test starts with determining a testing theme. We identify testing themes through research and consultations to reflect emerging trends and technologies, stakeholder needs, and developments in the Canadian and international capital markets.

The goal of a testing theme is to identify areas where technology or innovative solutions can have an immediate impact in Ontario’s capital markets.

After identifying a testing theme, we engage with stakeholders to arrive at one or more problem statements that will serve as the basis for a solution-focused test and establish the criteria for participation in that test.

The goal of the Testing Theme

Identify areas where innovative solutions can have an immediate impact in Ontario’s capital markets.

The goals of the Problem Statement

Focus the test on addressing specific issues and opportunities.

Frame the criteria for participation in a particular testing cohort.

Provide a direction for test participants to aim towards.

Who can participate

OSC TestLab is for businesses ready to test innovative solutions that respond to the problem statements and address specific issues and opportunities in Ontario’s capital markets.

Market participants can test their in-house solutions and technology developers can test solutions through partnerships with other capital market participants.

Ontario businesses will also be able to participate in tests centered around new approaches to regulation where the OSC will be testing new policies and initiatives aimed at reducing burden, promoting economic growth and competition, and fostering capital formation in Ontario’s capital markets.

The testing process

Businesses considering participating in a test should review the specific guidelines provided with each cohort announcement, to determine whether they fit the criteria and are willing to commit the resources to participate in testing.

Each announcement will be accompanied by:

One or more problem statements.

Criteria for participation in the cohort.

Online Application Form for the specific testing cohort.

Stages of the testing process

1Review testing parameters

2Submit application

3Assessment & notifications

4Finalize testing plan

5Cohort announcement

6Testing

7End of testing / exit

A continuous improvement framework

We understand the need to start small and move quickly to evolve. OSC TestLab helps businesses with innovative capital market solutions to experiment, learn and improve their solutions through testing.

Insights from testing will also help the OSC learn about how novel solutions contribute to our efforts to modernize regulation to reduce burden, promote economic growth and competition, and foster capital formation in Ontario’s capital markets.