In our previous article on eID schemes in the Nordic countries, we looked at some of the data showcasing the remarkable adoption and engagement rates for such schemes. A robust electronic identification and signature mechanism provides the foundation over which digital service delivery platforms are built.

The Nordic countries have led the world in digital adoption and innovation for some time now. They often top most digital competitiveness rankings like the 2017 Digital Evolution Index.

In Part 1 of this series, we looked at the objectives or motives behind having an eIDAS enabled digital on-boarding process. In Part 2, we look at the actual process that is followed currently and a few examples of the nifty tools and tricks that some banks, financial institutions and even independent app developers are using to digitize the customer on-boarding process. The process can be further simplified using tools provided by eIDAS for electronic identification and authentication.

The initial client on-boarding is a critical process for banks as well as their clients. For banks, the efficiency and speed of the process can leave a lasting impression in the mind of the customer. It can dictate how amenable the relationship would be in the coming months and years. A cumbersome process can make the customer doubt the technical capabilities of the bank and its ability to service their needs efficiently in the future.

The ultimate aim of regulations like eIDAS is the creation of a true Digital Single Market (DSM). eIDAS plays its role by providing the necessary authentication and trust service tools to address the needs of the DSM. In order to succeed, however, it is necessary to know what exactly each stakeholder in that market needs.

With each passing year, the volume of international trade in goods and services keeps rising. With all of this trade, however, comes an associated cost. This not only involves some unavoidable components like shipping, but also costs incurred due to inefficiency in other systems like customs clearances and trust between the trading parties.

The last few decades have seen more countries adopt a democratic form of government than ever before in history. For the most part though, citizens do not directly participate in day-to-day governance but rather elect representatives like Members of Parliament or Senators to do that in their stead. These MPs decide on the issues that are most relevant to society and then these issues are debated on and legislation may follow.

The European healthcare market is currently worth over USD 2 trillion. This figure is only expected to rise further as populations age, not only in the EU but in countries around the world. The cost of healthcare varies greatly and has even given rise to a new industry – medical tourism. Even within the EU, healthcare standards and costs vary greatly. While some of the factors that make healthcare more expensive (like the number of skilled practitioners or wages) cannot be changed overnight, there are certain other inefficiencies which can be removed.

The eIDAS Regulation creates a pan European market for electronic Trust Services (eTS). This includes things like electronic signatures and seals, electronic service delivery, website authentication and time stamps. The major thrust of the Regulation is towards ensuring that these mechanisms, when used, get the same legal status as conventional paper-based alternatives - across borders, throughout the EU.