Interoperability - FAQs
This page has now been archived. Please refer to the current version of Interoperability - FAQs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions and answers to help you with e-GIF matters. If you can't find the answer you need, contact us at e-gif@ssc.govt.nz
When do I have to comply with the e-GIF?
Why do I have to comply with the e-GIF?
Who has to comply with the e-GIF?
Where can I find out the standards that I have to comply with?
When do I need to apply for a temporary exemption from the e-GIF?
What new standards are being worked on?
How do I set up a Working Group?
How can I help the e-GIF process?
When do I have to comply with the e-GIF?
When IT systems in my agency interoperate with other organisations as set out here in the current version of the e-GIF. This applies when installing new IT systems or undertaking major upgrades on existing systems.
Why do I have to comply with the e-GIF?
The mandate for the e-GIF is set out in this Cabinet paper
Who has to comply with the e-GIF?
There is a list of agencies who have to comply with the e-GIF in the Cabinet paper. These are central Government agencies, the New Zealand Police, the New Zealand Defence Force, the Parliamentary Counsel Office, the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service, and the Government Communications Security Bureau. The wider State sector are encouraged to adopt the e-GIF, and local government are invited to use it.
Where can I find out the standards that I have to comply with?
The latest version of New Zealand E-government Interoperability Framework (NZ e-GIF) contains all the details. The list of standards can be found in Chapter 3.
I have an IT system that I am about to link with another agency's IT system. It doesn't comply with the e-GIF but there are reasons why I can't update it at the moment - what do I do?
First read the Exemption Principles. If you still need an exemption then complete this template as far as you can and submit it to the E-GIF Custodian. We welcome your feedback and comments on the value of this template.
When do I need to apply for a temporary exemption from the e-GIF?
If any of the following are true
- a standard being used in an existing system that is going to be interoperating with another agency does not comply with the e-GIF
- there is no suitable e-GIF standard for a new system that I am installing
- the current version of the e-GIF cannot meet my requirements
- an alternative approach to achieving interoperability has been agreed amongst all the parties exchanging data
What new standards are being worked on?
New standards being worked on can be found on the Interoperability Homepage
I can't find a standard for something I need to use, how do I set about getting it added to the e-GIF?
Extensions to the e-GIF can be suggested at any time. This should be done by contacting e-gif@ssc.govt.nz in the first instance. Proposed extensions will be reviewed by a Working Group before the standard is included in the e-GIF.
How do I set up a Working Group?
- The Working Group process starts with a discussion paper or standards proposal template. The template can be found here Word [116 KB]. Look at existing examples - the RSS Proposal and the CVL Discussion Paper.
- Complete the template and send it to the e-GIF Custodian who will then assist you.
- The e-GIF Custodian will publish the document on this website and circulate it to Government agencies for public consultation.
- Feedback is assessed and interested members assembled.
- A Working Group Terms Of Reference (TOR) template is prepared. Download the template here Word [196 KB]. We welcome your feedback and comments on the value of this template.
How can I help the e-GIF process?
- If you have an interest in a particular standard that is being considered for inclusion in the e-GIF you could volunteer for the Working Group.
- If there is a document out for consultation you can submit your thoughts to the pool of responses using the submission forms attached to the consultation documents.
- If you have an idea for a new standard you can follow the processes to form a working group (see above).
Contact
If you wish to discuss any aspect of the e-GIF, please contact e-gif@ssc.govt.nz