MAPS consists of the following elements:

• a user’s guide with instructions on how to conduct a MAPS assessment
• instructions on how to analyse the country context
• the indicator framework in four thematic pillars (each pillar includes indicators, sub-indicators - qualitative and quantitative - and assessment criteria):

• (I) Legislative, Regulatory and Policy Framework
• (II) Institutional Framework and Management Capacity
• (III) Procurement Operations and Market Practices 
• (IV) Accountability, Integrity and Transparency of the Public Procurement System

• A glossary to ensure clarity of the indicator framework and assessments
• A suite of supplementary modules that allow a focused analysis of specific areas
• Support tools, such as templates, that can provide support in conducting a MAPS assessment (see below)

• The MAPS methodology is open and can be used by anyone.

• MAPS assessments can be done by all countries – both as a self-assessment or with the help of external partners.

• If countries would like to receive a certification, assessments have to follow a set of rules and a quality standard, verified by the MAPS Secretariat.