Appendix 2: Links to Other E-Government Projects

Other projects underway include:

• S.E.E. Mail

• inter-operability

• inter-agency authentication

• directories and metadata

S.E.E. Mail

The S.E.E. Mail system may be a pre-requisite for securely notifying users of events and workflow via email, although it is possible to use anonymous email e.g. 'There has been activity in the Project X Workspace. Click here to connect'. Alternatively, custom built secure notification mechanisms could be used.

Inter-operability

Although a system can be designed with the goal of having minimal impact on other systems, there is still a need for agreement across government on desktop software standards. For example, if the system is Internet browser based, agreement may be needed across government with respect to the minimum supported browser. The development of a shared workspace should aim to minimise its impact on the interoperability project. The inter-operability project is also considering governance structures that will impact on the shared workspace project.

Inter-agency Authentication Infrastructure

The shared workspace application would probably be a flagship user of an inter-agency authentication infrastructure. The need for the shared workspace to work with non-public servants (e.g. consultants, or subject-matter experts) affects the scope of the authentication project. The cost of authentication technology could exceed the cost of purchasing and running a shared workspace system.

Directories

The shared workspace application may need a directory, and may publish information repository data to the directory.

Metadata (GUIDE)

The shared workspace application will need to be able to tag data appropriately, and would ideally be integrated with a locator service.

Legislation online

Access to legislation online is an integral part of the shared workspace model. A legislation system is also likely to have many similar requirements to a shared workspace system. Coordination could lead to savings in user training and technical support.

Cabinet online

Cabinet papers ideally feed into, and out of, the shared workspace system. The shared workspace application needs to be integrated with, or encapsulate, any future system for dealing with Cabinet Office requirements.

The above projects need to be considered together when dealing with major ownership and funding issues. It would be appropriate if each of the projects reported to the same governing body.