Frequently Asked Questions

 

What will the Identity Ecosystem Steering Group do?

The activities and work products of the Steering Group shall be conducted in support of the following objectives:

• Ensure that the Identity Ecosystem and Identity Ecosystem Framework conform to the four NSTIC Guiding Principles (as detailed in section 1.3 of the Recommendations).
• Administer the process for policy and standards development and adoption for the Identity Ecosystem Framework.
• Devise an accreditation process for Identity Ecosystem participants and certify that accreditation authorities validate adherence to the requirements of the Identity Ecosystem Framework.

Why should I join the Steering Group?

The Steering Group is an opportunity for you to have a seat at the table to develop the governance rules around digital identity in ways that reflect your needs and interests. While NSTIC is a government-initiated strategy, at the end of the day it will depend upon participation from key stakeholders like you to craft a framework for identity solutions that can replace passwords, allow individuals to prove online that they are who they claim to be, and enhance privacy.  The Steering Group will be the most important forum for stakeholders to convene and collaborate on solutions to enable the Identity Ecosystem. We welcome your participation in the creation of the Identity Ecosystem.

Are there any upcoming events that I should be aware of?

Yes. Over the course of the next couple of months, there are several activities that you should be aware of:

• Discuss the draft foundational documents and collaborate with your colleagues here on NSTIC Notes.
• To be scheduled: Teleconference and other participatory events to discuss the foundational documents.
• We will soon be announcing a 24-month grant award for an organization who will serve as the formal convener of the Identity Ecosystem Steering Group, and provide Secretariat and administrative support for the Steering Group.  This Secretariat will then begin facilitating the discussion and comment resolution on the Steering Group foundational documents. In addition, you can  expect to hear from them directly about a virtual pre-plenary Steering Group meeting.
• Week of August 13: First in-person meeting of the Steering Group. The meeting will be held in a central U.S. location for easy accessibility. Virtual participation will be available as well, although in-person participation is strongly encouraged.

Subscribe to this blog or follow us on Twitter to receive updates on these and other opportunities to participate and collaborate during this exciting time for NSTIC!

Is there an approximate level of commitment for Steering Group membership? 

The full Steering Group is expected to meet at least two times per year.  Meetings are expected to typically run one to two days.  Attendance is required, with virtual participation provided for those unable to attend in person. In-person participation is strongly encouraged.

Working Groups will meet as often as needed to execute work plans.  In similar initiatives, this has typically consisted of weekly or biweekly teleconference meetings.  Active stakeholders typically spend 3-5 hours per week on work plan activities, while others may just attend the teleconference meetings.

Who should represent my organization on the Steering Group?

In similar multi-stakeholder initiatives, working groups and standing committees are typically populated by technical and policy experts from member organizations .  Executive-level representatives, while welcome and encouraged to participate in all Steering Group events, may want to consider serving on the Management Council.  Working group meetings  will not typically require senior management attendance.

What are my obligations as a Steering Group Member?

As a member, you commit yourself (or your organization) to abide by the Charter and By-laws of the Steering Group. Therefore, you may wish to conduct a legal review of these documents. Links to the foundational documents (By-Laws, Charter, Membership Agreement) are posted in this blog to enable you to share them with your legal counsel as soon as possible during this discussion period.

How can I follow Steering Group Activities?

The Steering Group will work to facilitate meetings that are open for public attendance, including remote attendance and participation where ever possible. Essential information about Steering Group events and activities will be available on a publically accessible website.

The Steering Group will distribute outcomes following events and activities through the Steering Group website. This includes, but is not limited to, documents, conference presentations, meeting minutes, and publications.

For additional questions or concerns, please contact us at nstic@nist.gov, or reach out directly to our Senior Advisor for Stakeholder Engagement, Jim Sheire, at james.sheire@nist.gov.