Towards inclusive identity management

The article argues for a shift of perspective in identity management (IDM) research and development. Accessibility and usability issues affect identitymanagement to such an extent that they demand a reframing and reformulation ofbasic designs and requirements of modern identity management systems. Therationale for the traditional design of identity management systems and mechanismshas been security concerns as defined in the field of security engineering. By defaultthe highest security level has been recommended and implemented, often withouttaking end-user needs and accessibility issues into serious consideration. The articleprovides a conceptual framework for inclusive IDM, a brief overview of theregulatory status of inclusive IDM and a taxonomy of inclusive identity managementmethods. Several widespread IDM approaches, methods and techniques are analyzedand discussed from the perspective of inclusive design. Several important challengesare identified and some ideas for solutions addressing the challenges are proposedand discussed.