An e-GIF, or eGovernmentInteroperability Framework, is a scheme for ensuring the inter-operation of computer-based systems. It is intended to resolve and prevent problems arising from incompatible content of different computer systems. An e-GIF may aim to facilitate government processes at local, national or international levels.
adoption of XML as the primary standard for data integration and presentation tools for government systems
adoption of the browser as the key interface; all public sectorinformation systems are to be accessible through browser based technology; other interfaces are permitted but only in addition to browser based ones
adherence to a catalogue of Technical Standards such as the UK Technical Standards Catalogue.
adherence to the e-GIF was mandated throughout the public sector.
Drivers for selection of e-GIF specifications
interoperability - only specifications that are relevant to systems interconnectivity, data integration, e-services access and content management are specified
market support - the specifications selected are widely supported by the market, and likely to reduce the cost and risk of government information systems
scalability - specifications selected have capacity to be scaled to satisfy changed demands made on the system, such as changes in data volumes, number of transactions or number of users
openness - the specifications are documented and available to the public at large.
Establishing competence and capability in e-GIF
In the UK, the e-GIF Accreditation Authority accredited organisations for their capability and competence in delivering e-GIF compliant solutions. There was also a programme of individual certifications at Foundation and Expert levels aimed at developing and recognising e-GIF skills and experience, referenced against an e-GIF Competency Framework. The UK e-GIF Compliance Assessment Service, operated by the NCC, offered a self-assessment tool for e-GIF compliance in projects and programmes.
Fate
Within the UK, e-GIF was replaced by the "Open Source, Open Standards And Re-Use: Government Action Plan", published by the Cabinet Office in February 2009. This is now embodied in the Open Standards principles policy. The UK e-GIF documentation and UK Government Data Standards Catalogue have been archived and are available for reference only. Although now deprecated by the Cabinet Office, many systems have been built around the framework and continue to use e-GIF components, notably within the NHS.
