| The rise of network-based, automated services in the past
decade has definitely changed the way businesses operate,
but not always for the better. Offering services, conducting
transactions and moving data on the Web opens new
opportunities, but many CTOs and CIOs are more concerned
with the risks. Like the rulers of medieval cities, they've
adopted a siege mentality, building walls to keep the bad
guys out. It makes for a secure perimeter, but hampers the
flow of commerce.
Fortunately, some corporations are beginning to rethink how
they provide security, so that interactions with customers,
employees, partners, and suppliers will be richer and more
flexible. Digital Identity explains how to go about it. This
book details an important concept known as "identity
management architecture" (IMA): a method to provide ample
protection while giving good guys access to vital
information and systems. In today's service-oriented
economy, digital identity is everything. IMA is a coherent,
enterprise-wide set of standards, policies, certifications
and management activities that enable companies like yours
to manage digital identity effectively--not just as a
security check, but as a way to extend services and pinpoint
the needs of customers.
Author Phil Windley likens IMA to good city planning. Cities
define uses and design standards to ensure that buildings
and city services are consistent and workable. Within that
context, individual buildings--or system
architectures--function as part of the overall plan. With
Windley's experience as VP of product development for
Excite@Home.com and CIO of Governor Michael Leavitt's
administration in Utah, he provides a rich, real-world view
of the concepts, issues, and technologies behind identity
management architecture.
How does digital identity increase business opportunity?
Windley's favorite example is the ATM machine. With ATMs,
banks can now offer around-the-clock service, serve more
customers simultaneously, and do it in a variety of new
locations. This fascinating book shows CIOs, other IT
professionals, product managers, and programmers how
security planning can support business goals and
opportunities, rather than holding them at bay.
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Biting the hand that feeds IT 
Published by: O'REILLY & ASSOCIATES