A tender notice issued by Estonia’s Siseministeeriumi Infotehnoloogia- ja Arenduskeskus (the Ministry of the Interior’s Information Technology and Development Center) indicates that the government is looking to build a new mobile-based biometric registration system.
The project, identified by notice number 611304-2024, seeks to develop an innovative mobile solution for biometric data collection, specifically designed to support Estonia’s renowned e-residency program. As a part of the program’s ongoing digital transformation, the tender aims to establish a self-service biometric capture app that can streamline the application process for new and renewing e-residents.
The core functionality of the proposed app will focus on enabling users to capture various biometric data through their smartphones. These capabilities include facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, and the verification of foreign travel documents. The app will allow applicants to perform these actions independently, facilitating a smoother and more convenient e-residency application process.
This integration of multiple biometric features is unique as it combines functionalities not currently available in one application.
The tender notice specifies a deadline for participation requests by October 24, 2024, at 11:00 AM (UTC+3). The awarded contract is set to commence on June 2, 2025, and will last for a total of 60 months. The prolonged duration reflects the government’s intent not only to develop the app but also to ensure its maintenance and potential expansion in line with technological advancements. Given the extensive timeline, the Ministry likely aims to provide a thorough development and implementation period that includes testing, deployment, and possibly user training or public information campaigns to maximize adoption and usability.
In terms of the procurement process, the notice outlines a competitive dialogue format, which is often used in complex projects requiring a collaborative approach between the contracting authority and potential service providers. This process allows the Ministry to engage in discussions with bidders to refine the project scope, requirements, and solutions. The final evaluation criteria include price, cost, and various quality metrics, each carrying specific weightings.
The notice also details the scope and objectives of the project. The Ministry’s requirements include a mobile solution that must be accessible and functional for users across Estonia’s main geographic subdivisions, including Kesk-Eesti, Kirde-Eesti, Lääne-Eesti, Lõuna-Eesti, and Põhja-Eesti. The project also includes specific objectives related to accessibility, mandating features that will make the app usable for individuals with disabilities. This inclusive design approach aligns with broader EU directives on accessibility in digital services, enhancing the app’s appeal and utility for a diverse user base.
The technical specifications require self-service features that allow first-time e-residency applicants and renewal applicants to capture facial images, fingerprints, and document data independently. The Ministry is looking for a solution that not only simplifies the application process but also introduces new security measures through biometric verification.
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October 16, 2024 – by Cass Kennedy and Alex Perala
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