Towards a digital ID – part 14

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A recap

Previous entries in this blog series have explained that different countries have adopted different approaches to digital identity. In part 7 I wrote that there were eight main ‘flavours’ of digital ID system, and we had identified three of those that we felt were the best fit for Jersey. Part 8 was when I announced our intention to openly tender for a system that would meet our broad set of requirements. In part 9 and 10 we published the tender, which was carefully written to avoid being prescriptive about how a system should work.

The tender process allowed us to go from thinking about theoretical options to considering actual priced-up offerings from companies keen to implement their system in Jersey. We’ve narrowed down the field, and for the last couple of months have been focussing on one solution.

Principles

We are now able to start sharing information about how we see digital ID in Jersey working:

  1. Jersey’s digital ID will be free for individuals to obtain and use.
  2. It will not be compulsory.
  3. Not everybody will want or need a digital ID.
  4. We expect about 20% of Islanders aged over 16 to register for a digital ID in the first year, rising to 40% by the end of 2019.
  5. The system will enable you to prove who you are using your smartphone. You won’t have another plastic card to carry.
  6. We will continually strive to provide online services that are so convenient and easy to use that people prefer to use them. Alternatives will be available for those that need them.
  7. Individuals will have control over their own identity data, deciding who to share it with, and can delete their identity information at any time.

Obtaining your digital ID

  1. Islanders will be able to obtain their digital ID without needing to attend a government office.
  2. Most people will be able to set up a digital ID in about ten minutes.
  3. A valid passport will be needed.
  4. Help will be available in various ways for anyone who has difficulty in setting up their ID.
  5. People who do not live in Jersey will also be able to obtain a digital ID. This includes students studying in the UK and Islanders who have emigrated.
  6. Teenagers will be able to obtain one.

Compatible services

  1. In the first year we will start small with a few early services that the digital ID will work with.
  2. We will grow the range of services that it works with as quickly as we can.
  3. The digital ID system won’t just be for government services. (This helps increase uptake.)
  4. Businesses and other organisations will be able to use the system too.
  5. Developers will be able to integrate the digital identity system into their websites and apps.
  6. We intend to organise a hackathon. This is an event where coders work on integrating the system with their products. The supplier will be on hand to help, and there will be a prize for the best ideas.

Next steps

We are continuing to make good progress. The next few weeks are crucial as we continue to discuss technical, commercial and contractual matters with the preferred supplier.

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