Interoperability Framework for E-Government
Matters for Attention
Overview of the Interoperability Framework (IF)
A key business objective of our e-government initiatives is to provide client-centric joined-up government services to the public. Since government services are diverse and are offered by different government Bureaux and Departments (B/Ds), to provide one-stop comprehensive services, we must enable the seamless flow of information, within legal bounds, across individual B/Ds as necessary.
The HKSAR Government has established the IF since 2002 for B/Ds and related organizations to achieve interoperability in the exchange of electronic data and the development of integrated e-government services. The IF is primarily a collection of guidance documents, standards, and specifications that help B/Ds define the interface between interacting applications.
Computer systems implemented on different hardware and software platforms by different B/Ds can interoperate with one another by adopting the IF. Nevertheless, it has no binding influence whatsoever on the methods and forms of electronic interaction among members of the public or businesses.
Data specifications for interface between application systems are defined in Extensible Markup Language (XML), which is a key component of the IF. An XML Co-ordination Group (XMLCG) has been formed to develop strategies to facilitate more effective adoption of XML. In addition, specialist groups in some B/Ds are taking the lead in specifying data exchange standards for their respective business areas.
Development of the IF is a long-term, on-going strategic effort. The overall IF, including the technical specifications, is managed by the Interoperability Framework Co-ordination Group (IFCG). To accommodate new business requirements and keep in pace with technology advancements, the technical standards of IF are regularly reviewed and updated on annual basis by means of a consultative revision process to elicit industry as well as public participation.
The current version of the Interoperability Framework for e-Government is 22.1 and the review cycle of 2024 is underway. The next version of IF will be available by December 2024.
Feedback and comments on the IF are most welcome, and should be addressed to the IFCG at ifcg@digitalpolicy.gov.hk.
Stakeholder Consultation on the Draft of the Interoperability Framework for e-Government version 23.0
- The IFCG Standing Office invites B/Ds and stakeholders to review the
- Recommendations made in the Draft of the Interoperability Framework for e-Government version 23.0 are based on the
Comments on the Draft of the Interoperability Framework for e-Government version 23.0 document should reach the IFCG Standing Office via email ifcg@digitalpolicy.gov.hk on or before 28 October 2024.
Document Library
The specifications for facilitating interoperability currently include:
- The Interoperability Framework for e-Government version 22.1
- Data Standards
- Common Schemas
- Project and Business Related Schemas
- Common QR Code Specification for Retail Payments in Hong Kong (Merchant-Presented mode)
- Computer-Aided-Drafting Standard for Works Projects
- Dangerous Goods Manifest Submission with ebXML Message Service Projects
- Data Alignment Measures (DAM) for the Alignment of Planning, Lands and Public Works Data
- Financial Account Information Return XML Schema
- eHealth Record Information Standards
- Government Electronic Trading Services
- Hong Kong Legislation Model
- Weather Information in eXtensible Markup Language
- Code Lists
- Cross Reference on Representation Terms and Primitive Data Types
- Guidelines on Dissemination of Information through Government Websites
- LAN Addressing and Naming Convention And Recommendations for GNET Connection (accessible on the Government Intranet only)
- XML Schema Design and Management Guide version 1.5
Related Documents:
