BS ISO/IEC 39794-1:2019

What is ISO/IEC 39794‑1 - biometric data interchange formats about?  

Biometrics data needs to be compatible across formats for large-scale application. The ISO/IEC 39794 series provides standard biometric data interchange formats for different types of biometric characteristics. ISO/IEC 39794 series supports interoperability and data interchange among biometric applications and systems. 

ISO/IEC 39794-1 specifies the following: 

• Rules and guidelines for defining extensible biometric data interchange formats that are extensible without invalidating previous data structures 
• The meaning of common data elements for use in extensible biometric data interchange formats 
• Common data structures for tagged binary data formats based on an extensible specification in ASN.1 
• Common data structures for textual data formats based on an XML schema definition 
• Conformance testing concepts and methodologies for testing the syntactic conformance of biometric data blocks 

ISO/IEC 39794-1 defines what is common for the extensible biometric data interchange formats considered in the specific parts of the ISO/IEC 39794 series, i.e., the common content, meaning and representation of biometric data interchange formats. 

Who is ISO/IEC 39794‑1 - biometric data interchange formats for? 

ISO/IEC 39794‑1  on biometric data interchange formats is useful for: 

• IT firms / software programmers that work on biometric system coding 
• Biometric system suppliers 
• Managers and procurement officials considering the purchase of a biometric system in e.g., construction, local authorities (including health and education) and emergency services 
• Specialist security suppliers 
• Licensing trade and nightclub managers 

Why should you use ISO/IEC 39794‑1 - biometric data interchange formats?  

Biometric data interchange formats enable the interoperability of different biometric systems. Biometric data are sensitive data and subject to attack, cryptographic protection is required in interchange environments. Biometrics-related profiles, security evaluation and performance evaluation also play an important role. Biometric interfaces are essential to facilitate easy integration and usage of biometric components. 

ISO/IEC 39794‑1 describes the criteria for standardizing biometric data interchange formats. The standardization of biometric data interchange formats is used to provide interoperability and biometric data interchange among biometric applications and systems. 

ISO/IEC 39794‑1 includes a layered set of standards consisting of biometric data interchange formats and biometric interfaces, as well as biometric profiles that describe the use of these standards in specific application areas. 

ISO/IEC 39794-1 provides you with application-specific quality requirements for biometric data, which helps to achieve good comparison results. 

Complying with ISO/IEC 39794-1 works as reassurance to senior management, customers, and stakeholders that activity associated with the biometric data interchange system is aligned with best practices.