Recommended approach

Analysis of the four options was completed and independently reviewed in February 2003. The analysis determined that online authentication could give rise to both fiscal and economic benefits. The conclusion is that each of the four options has higher benefits than a 'do nothing' scenario. Option Two has less personal information stored centrally than Option One, but is more efficient and effective than Options Three and Four. Analysis and public feedback has determined that a centralised option with limited information exchange (Option Two) offers the best balance between value, cost, compliance and manageable levels of risk.