Model cards are standardized documents that communicate key information about AI models, including their intended use, training data, performance characteristics, limitations, and ethical considerations. They serve as a primary transparency instrument in AI governance.

Why D is Correct: According to the ISACA AAIR curriculum, the primary purpose of model cards is to provide transparency to stakeholders—including developers, users, auditors, and regulators. Transparency enables informed decision-making about model deployment, helps identify potential misuse, and supports responsible AI governance across the life cycle.

Why A is Wrong: Justifying use cases is a secondary benefit. Model cards are not primarily advocacy documents; their core function is objective disclosure of model characteristics and limitations.

Why B is Wrong: Preserving audit trails is a governance function served by version control and change management systems. While model cards contribute to audit readiness, it is not their primary purpose.

Why C is Wrong: Technical specifications represent only a subset of model card content. Model cards go beyond technical detail to address fairness, bias, intended use boundaries, and societal impact considerations.