SCNF "From the Chair"

2011-06-05T05:57:00.001-07:00

SCNF will be challenging the Pre-Paid industry at Pre-paid 2011 to bring down lifecycle costs for cards with a payment application present. In Local Authorities, we have seen significant reduction in card, issuing and processing costs over the last 10 years for transport and resident cards. What initiatives and proposition could bring down the cost of pre-paid, particularly when other applications are co-resident on the same card?

DWP - Evidence review of smartcard schemes in local authorities

2011-05-27T04:52:00.000-07:00

RR 738 Evidence review of smartcard schemes in local authorities
by Andrew Wood, Kate Downer and Annalise Toberman
This report provides the findings from an evidence review conducted by RS Consulting on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions, examining smartcard schemes that local authorities have implemented. Its overall aim was to draw together good practice and learning points as they relate to scheme implementation. The review explores a range of issues, including the services included within smartcard schemes; citizen participation in schemes; use of data to improve services; dissemination of information to users and prospective users; communications activities; and how schemes have been evaluated.
A qualitative scoring mechanism was used to assess the potential of local authorities with smartcard schemes in place. Following this, seven case study local authorities were chosen and visited between September and December 2010. The study consisted of analysing existing, publicly-available information and related evidence, supplemented by discussions with the chosen local authorities.
The local authorities that participated were Bolton Council, Bracknell Forest Council, Caerphilly County Borough Council, Cumbria County Council, Derbyshire County Council, Dundee City Council/the National Entitlement Card and Merseyside Improvement and Efficiency Partnership.

Click here for the report: http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/asd5/report_abstracts/rr_abstracts/rra_738.asp

CareBank project - proof of concept requirements - returns due by 24th June '11

2011-05-24T04:03:00.000-07:00

SCNF has received the CareBank project document which sets out the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead's requirements for a Proof of Concept for introducing the scheme to local people within the area.

The enclosed link are frequently asked questions that people have asked during the earlier stage of the project which you may find helpful. http://www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/consultation_carebank_faqs.htm

There is also a contact list of those that have already expressed an interest in developing the scheme. You may find this useful if you wish to form partnerships to develop your offer further.

The deadline for returns is 24th June. You may be asked to come forward for an interview or presentation week commencing 4th July. For details and copy of the document please email events@scnf.org.uk.

Two job opportunities at Southampton Council

2011-03-16T03:37:00.000-07:00

Southampton Council have been long standing supporters of the SCNF and it has been brought to our attention that there are two job opportunities within the council.

The posts are advertised at www.hampshirejobs.org.uk and also on the Local Transport Today Website. The Public Transport post is line managed by Simon Bell and The Legible Cities post by Paul Walker as part of the Transport & Travel Service Unit headed up by Frank Baxter. The closing date is 25^th March and full details are at the website including role profiles etc.

Principal Transport Planner –

Public Transport

£30,011 – £38,961 Ref: 116731

Legible Cities and Partnerships Project Officer

£30,011 – £38,961 Ref: 116964

Informal enquiries for either role are welcomed by

Paul Walker, Team Leader, Transport Policy on 023 8083 2628.

Apply now at www.hampshirejobs.org.uk

Email: hr.pay@southampton.gov.uk

Tel: 023 8083 2717 quoting the relevant reference

Minicom: 023 8083 2838

Closing date: 25th March 2011.

Contactless Intelligence Awards

2011-01-30T16:10:00.000-08:00

This year's awards at the Contactless Intelligence event on 14th April include a category for public sector schemes. An initial application form is available to download.

This is an excellent annual event and we have negotiated some free places for public sector delegates to attend. See Agenda for the 5th Contactless Intelligence Spring Conference and Contactless Monkey Awards (CMAs) 2011 at http://bit.ly/9IP3CM.

SCNF is due to present a round up of public sector schemes and news.

Please contact us if you want more information or you wish to attend - email events@scnf.org.uk

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF

SCNF - Payment and Transport events

2011-01-30T15:12:00.000-08:00

The SCNF has been represented at a couple of events this month.

Last week at Transport Ticketing 2011, I represented the forum and stood in for Mick Davies (LASSeO) for a panel discussion about multiple applications and using smartcards for transport across Europe. We all hope Mick recovers and is back in circulation soon.

The event was very well attended with a key note address from Norman Baker to kick off proceedings. I will try to get some notes written up for SCNF.

On 31st, SCNF will be represented at an alternative currency unconference in London. The event has been called by the Cabinet Office and will see discussions about how to encourage and reward volunteering and other contributions to local communities. Look out for feedback after the event.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF

Somers on Obesity and the NHS

2011-01-12T11:43:00.000-08:00

My attention was grabed by the article in the London Standard tonight about Shaw Somers experience with rapidly rising obesity related illness and the dire implications on the NHS.

See http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard/article-23913213-obese-patients-will-break-nhs-budget-within-10-years.do

If occurences of cancer or other diseases increased at the same rate there would be a national outcry! There is clearly a need for urgent action for adults and children in the UK.

This is one of the topics we are covering at the Rewards, Incentives and Loyalty event on 19th January in Westminster. Come and hear the latest update on the Barking and Dagenham youth card and discuss other initiatives to improve wellbeing, the environment and our communities.

We look forward to meeting members on 19th Jan

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
www.scnf.org.uk

Rewards, Incentives and Loyalty - 19th Jan Westminster

2011-01-11T16:15:00.000-08:00

We are holding our next members' event on 19th Jan, because we believe it is TIME to discuss how rewards, incentives and loyalty schemes can encourage residents to participate in and support their local community while helping local authorities to deliver more with limited resources.

Recent Government announcements and discussions have highlighted the need to offer and manage incentives:

The White Paper, Healthy Lives, Healthy People includes an expectation: Guide choice through incentives. A ‘points mean prizes’ approach, for example the more a child walks to school, they earn points for healthy prizes like an activity day.

The Cabinet Office Behaviour Insight Team which is taking forward the Coalition Government’s objective to be a much smarter one, shunning the bureaucratic levers of the past and finding intelligent ways to encourage, support and enable people to make better choices for themselves. Clearly reward and incentive schemes can play a major part in enabling these outcomes by tracking and recognising contributions in the community. See http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/big-society

There are a few places left for SCNF members to join the dialogue and learn from the case studies we have brought together.

We look forward to seeing you next week.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
www.scnf.org.uk

Best Wishes for 2011

2011-01-05T01:25:00.000-08:00

As we get back to work and the start of a challenging year, SCNF is planning to run events which enable new initiatives and help you deliver services more effectively and efficiently.

Our first event is on 19th Jan in Westminster, when we will be presenting a number of case studies on reward, incentive and loyalty schemes. There are some excellent examples of health, environment and community challenges being tackled with smart cards and reward/incentive schemes. We look forward to hearing views from members at this meeting.

At the end of January, we have an excellent offer for member to attend Transport Ticketing 2011 and expect an ongoing dialogue about the more effective use of smartcards and future direction of ITSO and payment cards in transport.

We welcome your input on topics for future meetings - recent ideas include scheme business case, schools, resident card schemes and payment methods.

Best wishes for 2011

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
www.scnf.org.uk

£4B funding for health initiatives

2010-11-30T15:14:00.000-08:00

Andrew Lansley has announced £4B funding ring fenced to improve the nation's health working through Local Authorities and new health body.

Our health is one of the key themes of the next SCNF event where we will be show-casing a range of scheme which reward and incentive behaviour change. The event will feature the Barking & Dagenham scheme which tackles childhood obesity and teenage sexual health. We have also invited representatives from NHS and will have the first report on the Southampton initiative sponsored by DWP to encourage older citizens to become more active.

Places are limited for this event which is free for SCNF member to attend. For more information, go to www.scnf.org.uk or email events@scnf.org.uk.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF

Rewards, Incentives and Loyalty 19th Jan

2010-11-18T02:52:00.000-08:00

We are holding our next event on 19th Jan, because we believe it is the right time to discuss how rewards, incentives and loyalty schemes can encourage residents to participate and support their local community.

Climate, economic, health and social pressures are expected to have an increasing impact on our lives and provision of services. Local Authorities are trying to deliver the same or better services with less resource.

As Lord Nat Wei recently stated, "it is how we support citizens in taking control of their lives" (and local environment).

At this event, you will discover how other authorities are increasing recycling rates while saving on landfill costs, learn about schemes to encourage healthy eating & postive activity, hear about sustainable shemes to support local businesses and find out about the success of timebanking to encourage participation in the local community.

This unique event brings together case studies and discussion of the principal aspects of our world which we would like to see improved - environment, health, community and social wealth.

We look forward to meeting you at the event on 19th Jan 2011. Places are limited, so please book early to avoid disappointment.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF

Pre-paid in Public Transport Workshop

2010-11-08T02:30:00.000-08:00

Norman Baker, Under Secretary of State for Transport has recently re-inforced his expectation that one smart card should be used to travel seamlessly anywhere in the country, possibly including bikes and car clubs.

While this is already possible for holders of a concessionary transport smart card, how will it be realised for those of us who have to pay for each journey on public transport?

On one hand TfL has firmly committed to introduce support for contactless debit and credit cards to be used, making it much easier for occasional visitors to travel. Also by 2012, you should be able to travel through or into London with an ITSO ticket. Elsewhere regional schemes are thinking about various methods of pre-paid travel and "stored travel rights", but are they compatible for seamless travel - does an Oxford pound buy a journey in Leicester? What do you need to make the journey experience better and public transport more accessible? Is the hassle of loading your card just moving from the station to a kiosk or corner shop?

It explore these challenges and the consequences of enabling pre-paid EMV cards for use on public transport, SCNF is holding a workshop on 24th Nov in conjunction with Global Pre-paid Exchange. If you have thoughts, questions or would like to participate, please contact us on chair@scnf.org.uk

Kevin Farquharson & Steve Beecroft
Co-Chairs SCNF see www.scnf.org.uk

SCNF Reward, Incentive & Loyalty Event - 19 Jan 2011

2010-10-04T01:31:00.000-07:00

If you had registered for this event, you should have been contacted directly.

We are re-schedule the SCNF event to Jan 2011 when we expect the uncertainty over the funding of public services will be reduced and the potential links to the Big Society agenda will be clearer. We have an excellent line up of speakers and want to ensure we have a useful debate on the use of smart card technology in health, environment and community incentive schemes. We will also make some of the case studies available on line before the event.

We will still be holding an informal meeting at 10am for those already committed to visiting London. If you plan to join us, please can you reply to events@scnf.org.uk and we will send you revised arrangements.

We expect to publicise the new date in the next few weeks.

Regards,

Kevin Farquharson & Steve Beecroft
Co-Chairs SCNFt: +44 (0) 1483 772241 e: chair@scnf.org.ukw: http://www.scnf.org.uk/

RFID Europe

2010-10-04T01:16:00.001-07:00

A number of members trekked up to Cambridge for the annual RFID Europe event. While the event has a strong technical angle, it is the place to find out about market trends and how organisations are using innovative technology. I would like to thank IDTechEx for welcoming SCNF and members to the event.

During the conference sessions, there was focus on RFID technology in retail, a presentation by contactless payment provider sQuid Card, some interesting case studies in the use of NFC (contactless enabled mobile phones), Multi-function Wayfinding from Guide Dogs for the Blind, Cubic on transportation smart ticketing and use of RFID in Cambridge central library.

The use of RFID continues to grow across the world in every sector from transport and goods to healthcare and animal tagging. The cost of devices continue to fall in real terms as well as getting smaller and lighter. This makes RFID and related smart card technology a major enabler of process improvement, increasing customer satisfaction and reducing costs.

We are considering running a Public Sector stream again next year, so members can see the bigger picture of the effective use of identification technology. We will try and obtain some presentations from this year to publish on the website.

We would welcome your thoughts on ideas and topics to cover

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF

2010-09-27T12:37:00.000-07:00

We are delighted to be holding the next SCNF meeting on 7th Oct at Westminster University. The event will feature leading UK case studies on reward, incentive and loyalty schemes. We will be discuss the link with the big society agenda as well as discussing the potential to improve health outcomes and community participation.

The event will feature the following case studies:

Derbyshire Gold Card - Enabling participation in the community, eg, Students vote on £1 million of investments.
Spice - Agency Time Credits enable public services to deliver improved outcomes with fewer resources.
Cheshire Charisma Card - Now in it’s 7th year the scheme continues to promote the use of local businesses, access to discounted parking and free events.
Mid-Suffolk Key Card Scheme - The Mid Suffolk Key offers discounts at over 50 outlets across the district.
Barking & Dagenham - Street Base Connect encourages young people to lead healthier, more active lives.
Windsor & Maidenhead - green recycling initiative has helped the borough reach 37% recycling. 75% of eligible green waste customers have activated their RecycleBank accounts.

The case studies will be followed by debates about health and incentive schemes.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF

SCNF Reward, Incentive and Loyalty Event

2010-07-31T03:30:00.000-07:00

The next SCNF event will be on 7th October in central London. 10am to 4pm.

We are currently planning an exciting event which will show case a range of schemes which demonstrate how to implement, reward, incentive and loyalty programmes and how they can be linked to resident and transport card schemes.

Confirmed case studies include Spice incentive scheme for community based programmes, Barking and Dagenham reward scheme for young people, mid-Suffolk Key card scheme and Derbyshire Gold Card. We have also invited speakers on health incentive schemes, re-cycling initiatives and local business loyalty programmes. We look forward to stimulating debate and discussion about ideas and opportunities across the UK.

With the recent Government announcements on the Big Society agenda, we anticipate a growing need and interest for reward and incentive schemes to energise local initiatives. We are talking to the Big Society Network about this event and expect this to be one of the major themes. We will also be discussing how to implement sustainable schemes in the current economic climate.

The event is free for SCNF members to attend and there will be an exhibition area from our sponsors. Places will be limited, so if you wish to reserve a place, please send an email to events@scnf.org.uk - can you indicate any particular application you would like to find out more about.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF

2010-06-20T13:23:00.000-07:00

Once again SCNF secured free places for our members at Pre-Paid 2010. This 2 day conference covers all the bases on payment and SCNF has helped shape the public sector stream which was much improved this year. This event is now an essential fixture for anyone considering or implementing mobile, internet or contactless payment in the public sector. The highlights were numerous and included:

- SCNF requirement for pre-paid round table – see notes to be posted on website
- Bracknell Forest – still extending and enhancing its scheme after 8 years
- Croydon explaining how pre-payment for school meals has saved £750k already
- Westminster accepting card and telephone payment to save over £7m pa in costs
- Round table – steps to overcome the barriers and implement pre-paid in public sector

- Mastercard being used for payment on Liverpool buses
- sQuid service underpinning cashless catering and now ITSO travel pre-payment
- Update on Kent County scheme for making payments in personalised care
- Rollout of contactless Visa payment and Visa programmes (white label & close loop)
- LASSeO identifying the barriers to progress
- Mick Davies appealing for a payment service provider to step forward
- TfL news on acceptance of EMV by 2012 and first screening of new video
- Steve Beecroft exploring smart in football clubs which revealed there is a business case
- Industry experts discussing the future of mobile, NFC and internet payment models
- Pending e-money regulatory changes – may impact school meals and transport

This is the only UK (and possibly European) event where you learn about the latest case studies and can hear directly from Visa, Mastercard, E-Money Association, card issuers, banks, TfL, alternative payment solutions, consultants, lawyers and HM Treasury.

I hope we can contribute some success stories to an even more successful event next June. Look out for SCNF offer to members next year. If you want sight ofg outputs from this year's event, go to SCNF site or email events@scnf.org.uk.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
www.scnf.org.uk

SCNF Officers Elected

2010-06-20T13:19:00.000-07:00

At the Core Group meeting on 15th June, Kevin Farquharson and Steve Beecroft were both re-elected as Co-Chair of the SCNF. Owen McLaughlin was elected Treasurer.

The CG also consider future events and agreed that links to transport cards and reward/incentives were key areas to focus on. Input would be welcome from members on future events.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
www.smartran.co.uk

SCNF at Pre-Paid

2010-06-14T03:13:00.000-07:00

The SCNF will hold its own session at Pre-Paid 2010 tomorrow in London, starting at 10am. Join us to discuss the latest developments in payment applications and their use with resident card schemes.

10:00am SCNF – introduction to prepaid
11.40 Fostering new partnerships and expanding the e+ smartcard
12.00 Case study: The Croydon e-Pay cashless schools project
12.30 Case study: Westminster’s pay by phone parking scheme
12.50 Panel discussion: transforming service delivery with prepaid and smartcards
Darryl Wallis, Project Manager, Hillingdon Council
Steve Pennant, Programme Lead, Connected London, London Councils
Nicola Kaye, SmartCard Programme Support Officer, Bracknell Forest Council
Kevin Farquharson, Co-Chair, SCNF
John Thornton, Director, e-ssential Resources

We will also be discussing the result from the member survey on the Mifare 4Byte UID issue.

If you not joining us a Pre-Paid, then look out for feedback and updates on the SCNF website.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
www.scnf.org.uk

SCNF Survey on Mifare UID Issue

2010-05-20T01:58:00.000-07:00

SCNF has just launched a members survey...

You might be aware of an emerging problem affecting issuers and acceptors of Mifare Classic 1K and 4K smart cards (and emulations of the same).The Smart Card Networking Forum, SCNF, are keen to get a snapshot of the initial reaction from public sector organisations and suppliers.

This will help us understand the state of readiness for change so we can advise and inform our communities on best practice and the pragmatic adoption of any necessary changes.

Please could you spare a few minutes of your time to complete our survey. To participate please click the link below or copy it into your web browser. This survey will be closed at midnight on 11th June 2010 and we value your early response.

http://www.kwiksurveys.com/online-survey.php?surveyID=KOIKMM_d997ed67

Thank you for your time from all at the SCNF!

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
http://www.scnf.org.uk/

SCNF Bulletin - Mifare Classic UID

2010-05-04T09:15:00.001-07:00

The following bulletin has been sent to SCNF members:

We need to draw urgently to your attention an emerging problem affecting issuers and acceptors of Mifare Classic 1K and 4K smart cards (and emulations of the same).

NXP who licenses a number of card manufacturers and new smart media providers has stated that the available number of Unique IDs for cards will run out by mid 2011. The Unique ID is written to the card chip at time of manufacture. Various options have been identified to ensure continuity of supply, however SCNF members are advised to consider the implications with their suppliers and service providers and determine how best to mitigate the impact in their schemes.

The problem is likely to affect card issuing systems, control methods (eg hotlisting) and smart card applications which are reliant on reading the Unique ID. The problem is very likely to affect some widely adopted applications such as access control and cashless catering which are generally over-reliant on this manufacturer generated ID. Many applications will not be affected at all, however regression testing is a sound pre-caution.

The Core Group of the SCNF is discussing the implications and will work with LASSeO to help disseminate information to members, provide general guidance and possibly make recommendations. Members should check the SCNF website and look out for further updates. We would also like your help to encourage more organisations to join the forum in order to keep advised and share experience.

Kevin Farquharson & Steve Beecroft
Co-Chairs SCNF
e: chair@scnf.org.uk
w: www.scnf.org.uk

Birmingham Event Success

2010-05-01T06:04:00.000-07:00

SCNF members enjoyed another successful event in Birmingham on 21st April and can look forward to continuing our exciting programme of events throughout 2010. The event was notable for a large proportion from Midlands authorities and organsations. We also elected a new Core Group to steer the Forum through the next year.

The Smart Card Networking Forum CRM Integration Event & Midlands Workshop was well attended and the feedback has been good. The presentations from this event will be available in the members’ area of www.scnf.org.uk shortly.

Some members attended the CI Spring Conference on 29th April in London. There were some excellent discussions around transport cards, european NFC trials and retail applications. Bracknell Forest and Hillingdon were both up for a Public Sector award and were just pipped by a Finnish school scheme using Nokia NFC phones.

Watch this space and the website for news about changes to Mifare Classic next year and SCNF at Pre-Paid 2010 on June 15th.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF

SCNF Case Studies and Midlands Workshop

2010-04-19T01:43:00.000-07:00

The SCNF heads to central Birmingham on Wednesday for a 2 part event. In the morning, three case studies will be presented setting out how CRM systems can be used to enable resident card schemes. We will be hearing from SAP and the implementation of Microsoft Dynamics in Kingston.

The afternoon will see a workshop of Midlands authorities on the potential applications of resident card schemes. There will be plenty of time to network, speak to sponsors and see the exhibition area.

In March, DWP signed up two authorities to trial applications which encourage older people to participate and use local authority services. Event delegates will be the first to hear from one of the selected authorities about the scope and expectations for their trial.

Owing to some ash cloud stranded delegates, there are a couple of places left for late registration. Email events@scnf.org.uk.

Kevin Farquharson, Co-Chair SCNF

SCNF at DWP Event

2010-03-22T15:26:00.000-07:00

Many SCNF members joined in the DWP event at the Brit Oval on 3rd March, which was attended by around 100 delegates. The focus of the event was to share good practice and obtain feedback from delegates about the information and support required.

The event was opened by Hugh Pullinger from DWP explaining the focus on services for older people and an ageing society. Hugh set out the challenges of delivering and adapting services for a growing population of pensioners (250k will be over 100 by 2050!). DWP wants to encourage people to prepare more effectively for later life, to increase participation in local activities and to reduce the number of people becoming isolated.

Hugh was followed by Nicky Kaye from Bracknell and SCNF describing the range of services enabled by the E+ card which is also available to pensioners on their concessionary transport card. Kevin Farquharson, on behalf of Capital Ambition, described the recent work on the London Card which is intended to make it easier for all residents to access services and is planned to incorporate the Freedom Pass which is in the process of being re-issued.

The final case study was presented by Geoff Pickford from Derbyshire who described the Gold Card applications which they have linked to over 60 concessionary transport cards. The Gold Card extends use to libraries, local business discounts and promotion of welfare and benefits.

Presentations have been requested from contributors to be posted in the members area and we are awaiting feedback from DWP on the table discussions to identify delegates' key issues and needs. DWP is also expected to announce shortly the locations for application trials they will be funding later this year.

This was one of the most successful events we have been involved in. Many of our sponsors had stands which delegates were able to visit during the breaks and ask more detailed questions.

We will keep members advised on future DWP scheduled events.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
www.scnf.org.uk

SCNF CRM and Introduction Workshop 21st April

2010-03-20T07:23:00.000-07:00

The next Smart Card Networking Forum event is in Central Birmingham at the BMI on 21st April. See the website and calendar for details as they are announced.

SCNF members are invited to join their peers to learn how smart cards can be used in a multi-application resident card scheme or look in detail at how other authorities are using their Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Systems to issue and manage their resident card scheme. In the afternoon there will be a workshop for authorities in the Midlands and additional time to network and speak to sponsors.

Come along and find out how different CRM systems including Microsoft Dynamics are being used to improve the delivery of services and managing the customer relationship.

If you would like to attend, please register as a member on the SCNF website (http://www.scnf.org.uk/join.html) and email events@scnf.org.uk as soon as possible as places are limited. Please indicate which sessions you are planning to attend.

We look forward to meeting you at the April event.

Regards,

Kevin Farquharson & Steve Beecroft
Co-Chairs
Smart Card Networking Forum

e: chair@scnf.org.uk
w: www.scnf.org.uk

Please follow our blog at http://scnfchairman.blogspot.com

We also Twitter at http://twitter.com/SCNF

London Cards Framework Feasibility Study

2010-01-10T12:41:00.000-08:00

The London Councils funded a feasibility study in Autumn 2009. The summary report is now available and published on the London Councils website. This report and the business model may be of interest to other authorities.

http://www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/capitalambition/projects/londoncard.htm

There is a workshop on 23rd Feb for London authorities about the findings and opportunities. For more information see the London Councils event listing.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF

www.scnf.org.uk

DWP Expressions of Interest

2010-01-10T08:26:00.000-08:00

In December nearly a dozen authorities expressed an interest in the DWP invitation to support trial(s) of smart card applications. All the response were forwarded to DWP with a brief summary of the applicants. DWP is now following up with each during January.

The SCNF was delighted to see the number and range of responses which reflects the growing interest in applications of smart cards beyond transport. It will be excellent to see a number of these proposals move forward including the one(s) selected by DWP for funding.

SCNF will be following developments closely and the event on the 3rd March will provide insight into the possibilities and existing experience in other schemes.

To be the first to receive new information, make sure you have signed up to the SCNF.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
www.scnf.org.uk

Smart Card Funded Trials

2009-12-08T03:04:00.000-08:00

The SCNF has been asked by DWP to identify candidate authorities to undertake a trial of applications linked to concessionary smart cards.

DWP is looking for one, maybe two authorities to undertake funded trials of these smartcard applications. The trial criteria are as follows:

1. A good size cohort of older people
2. A Smart Card initiative that can use the existing ENCTS concessionary pass
3. A data base to record activity and impact
4. Activities and concessions for older people
5. Some innovation especially linking National and Local entitlements to getting people active
6. Advice and guidance off the back of the card scheme
7. Engagement with isolated or inactive groups
8. Impact and testing in both Urban and Rural environments .

If you wish your organisation to be put forward to DWP, please sign up to the Forum (if not already a member) and request an application form by emailing chair@scnf.org.uk. We need responses by 16/12/09.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
www.scnf.org.uk

Successful Transport Workshop

2009-11-14T02:16:00.000-08:00

The SCNF Transport event last week was a further success for the forum with a packed room of attendees from Local Authorities, London Councils and Central Government.

The workshop was arranged to explain the LASSeO standards for multi-application encoding on Desfire cards and discuss how it could be implemented. Mick Davies introduced LASSeO and the process of developing and maintaining standards. Owen McLaughlin explained the origins and scope the standards. Over 20 different applications were mentioned during the course of the workshop! Nicky Kaye gave the perspective of Bracknell Forest who have a multi-application concession card.

Gwyn Williams introduced the implementation guidelines which have been prepared and proposed cards should have at least basic encoding when issued. The implications of having multiple numbers on the card was discussed (ie transport and entitlement). Copies of the draft were circulated and feedback requested during and after the meeting. A final copy will be published on the website.

Steve Beecroft concluded the event by leading a discussion about the business case and scope for reducing/sharing scheme costs. Michael Murray from DWP announced an event for Local Authorities which they are planning for 3rd March 2010 – an important date for the diary.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
www.scnf.org.uk

SCNF Transport Workshop

2009-10-22T14:08:00.000-07:00

The SCNF has received an excellent response from Local Authorities for the Transport Workshop on 11th Nov in London. Places are being taken up rapidly.

At the meeting members will be discussing the implications and opportunities when authorities start issuing concessionary passes on the Desfire smart card platform. As most authorities appear to have chosen this card type as the successor to Mifare which starts to be phased out in January, it is possible to plan for other applications and the wider use of the concession card.

The workshop will cover the background to the changes, specification for encoding Mifare cards, applications supported, implementation guidelines, learning from existing schemes, business case implications and testing facilities. A number of existing multi-application schemes will be represented, so we expect a very informative exchange of ideas and experience.

There are limited places at the workshop which are already 60% taken up, which is very encouraging. For more information, see the website and email events@scnf.org.uk.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
www.scnf.org.uk

Smartcard Specification for Multi-application Published

2009-10-09T13:41:00.000-07:00

At last week’s conference in Cambridge, SCNF announced to its members that the LASSeO (Local Authority Smartcard Standards e-Organisation) specification has been ratified for the Phillips Desfire card type which most Transport Executives are intending to issue from January.

In 2010, concessionary card holders could be using their transport smart card to access services
at their library, leisure centre, community centre and town hall.

Ron Hetherington from Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council and SCNF Treasurer remarked: "Local Authorities have been holding back on the development of new applications for their smartcards because of uncertainty about the de-facto industry standard. Now that an industry specification has been developed, Local Authorities will be able to push forward their smartcard strategy more confidently.”

Following a technical agreement between ITSO (Integrated Transport Smartcard Organisation)
and LASSeO last month, LASSeO has published their specification for encoding multiple
applications on a transport card. The specification includes basic cardholder information, cash
collection, parking, identity, e-purse and entitlement.

For more information about the specification, SCNF plans to run a workshop in London on 11th November and the new specification can found on the following public page:
http://www.scnf.org.uk/nscp.html

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
www.scnf.org.uk

Excellent ID and Libraries Event

2009-10-05T13:18:00.000-07:00

Members of the SCNF enjoyed one of the best events we have run according to their feedback. Our members were among 250 attendees at the RFID Europe event in Cambridge last week.

The programme was compact yet encompassed 8 well informed speakers who all had new information and ideas to share with our audience. We are indebted to Axiell for sponsoring the event.

Members learnt about DWP's planned support for smartcard application trials, research outcome from Yorcard (DfT sponsored), Hillingdon scheme early results, Dudley RFID implementation, LASSeO agreement with ITSO on encoding concessionary passes for multiple applications, Lord Erroll on ID security and Dr John Gill on special needs applications.

Those present also had an opportunity to give their views on future SCNF events and initiatives to help SCNF members.

SCNF members can access all the presentation and feedback from the event at www.scnf.org.uk. For further information on the SCNF, please email chair@scnf.org.uk.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
www.scnf.org.uk

SCNF Identity & Library Event

2009-09-18T14:22:00.000-07:00

SCNF members will be joining RFID Europe on 30th Sept in Cambridge for an important networking event and the first to hear from:

Project Manager - Hillingdon First Card launched in June 2009
Department for Work & Pensions - sharing best practice in supporting an ageing society
West Yorkshire PTE - results from DfT sponsored research into Multi-application cards
Lord Erroll - views on protecting personal identity in a networked world

There are only a limited number of places available.

Public Sector employees are invited to register and attend the event free of charge. For more information about the event see the SCNF website (www.scnf.org.uk) and RFID Europe (http://www.idtechex.com/rfideurope09/en/). The venue is on the edge of town and has sufficient parking for delegates.

To register for your free place, you need to become a member of the SCNF (go to www.scnf.org.uk/join.html) and email events@scnf.org.uk requesting your place. We will send confirmation and answer any queries by return.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair
Smart Card Networking Forum

t: +44 (0) 1483 772241
e: chair@scnf.org.uk
w: www.scnf.org.uk

Please follow our blog at http://scnfchairman.blogspot.com

We also Twitter at http://twitter.com/SCNF

DfT Ticketing Strategy Consultation

2009-08-21T02:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, DfT issued its consultation on Ticketing Strategy which is due to conclude at the end of October. This is a very important exercise for all organisations involved in public transport, concessionary travel and service improvement initiatives. The SCNF already has a sub-group focussed on Transport and will be considering the questions raised and arrange a SCNF meeting before the consultation closes.

I have extracted a few lines from the DfT press release which can be found at:
http://nds.coi.gov.uk/Content/Detail.aspx?NewsAreaId=2&ReleaseID=406006&SubjectId=2

Paper travel tickets could become a thing of the past under proposals announced by the Government today. New technology, enabling mobile phones to double up as "swipe and go" cards and bank cards to be used to pay directly for journeys could revolutionise how travellers purchase and use tickets according to the new consultation. The Government estimates that the benefits of universal 'integrated smart' ticketing could be as much as £2 billion per year through improved journey times and faster, more convenient and reliable purchasing and use of tickets, with benefits for local government and operators too.

Central to the vision is the implementation of smart ticketing infrastructure using the Government backed ITSO specification to allow seamless travel between, and within, cities and regions; and different modes of transport. We could see the end to waiting in line at ticket machines, while buses could spend half the amount of time sitting at the bus stop waiting for people to board and looking for the right change.

DfT consultation also refers to joining up services through using smartcards for other products such as library membership, leisure centre entry, benefit entitlement, parking, bike and car hire, and even lift share arrangements.

Jonathan Bray, Director of the Passenger Transport Executive Group Support Unit said:
"We fully share the Government's ambition to see smart ticketing introduced across Britain's largest urban areas as soon as possible. Oystercard has become intrinsic to London life - passengers have a right to expect a similar deal in the next tier of major urban areas.
"We look forward to continuing to work with Government on the reform of bus subsidies that's currently underway to help make this happen."

Please let us know the points SCNF should discuss and look out for arrangements to discuss a response from SCNF.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
www.scnf.org.uk

Hillingdon First at RFID Europe Event

2009-08-16T15:46:00.000-07:00

The recently launched Hillingdon First scheme has been rolled out to 150,000 residents and is already used as a library card, to obtain discounted parking rates and local business loyalty card.

Darryl Wallace, Project Manager for the Hillingdon scheme will be speaking at the SCNF stream of the RFID Europe event about the introduction of the card and particularly its use as the new libary card for new and existing borrowers.

For more information about the event, see the website or email enquiries@scnf.org.uk.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
www.scnf.org.uk

SCNF & CRM Integration

2009-08-16T15:39:00.000-07:00

Local Authorities are continuing to invest in Customer Relationship Management to improve customer service delivery and some are on a second round of replacement and upgrade.

SCNF is planning to run an event during November which will focus on the synergy and integration between CRM and resident card schemes. This will particularly interesting for Local Authorities considering introducing a resident card scheme.

We are currently speaking to potential sponsors and case studies for the event.

For further information and contributions to the event, please contact the Core Group or email enquiries@scnf.org.uk.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
www.scnf.org.,uk

Building a society for all ages including Active 60 Package

2009-07-16T16:33:00.000-07:00

The following is taken from the Building Britain's Future website...

As a country we are living through an enormous demographic change. This has now reached a tipping point with pensioners outnumbering children for the first time. A quarter of all children born today are expected to live to reach 100 years old. This is a challenge, but also an opportunity. Building a Society for All Ages is the Government's strategy for how we as a society make the most of this change. It develops the Government's 2005 strategy, Opportunity Age [DWP website] which has now largely been delivered. It builds on a solid foundation of recent reforms to the pensions and health systems for older people.

The strategy is available online in PDF from the BBF website. This strategy already draws upon extensive debate and discussion over the last year. It's publication now marks the next stage in the process towards our goal as we start a national debate about how we can make it a reality. If you would like to be involved in this debate then visit our consultation page.

Posted by SCNF.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair

http://www.scnf.org.uk/

SCNF at RFID Europe - Libraries and ID Management

2009-07-16T16:28:00.000-07:00

The Smart Card Networking Forum is running a public sector stream at the RFID Europe conference on 30th Sept in Cambridge. This year we will focus on libraries and personal identity.

SCNF members are invited to register and attend the event free of charge. For more information see the SCNF website (www.scnf.org.uk), RFID Europe (http://www.idtechex.com/rfideurope09/en/) and email events@scnf.org.uk. The venue is on the edge of town and has sufficient parking for delegates.

Aside from the whole programme on RFID technology, there will be a presentation by Dudley Council on their use of RFID and the event is sponsored by Axiell (formerly known for the DS Galaxy library management system). This is an excellent event to find out about the use of RFID technology for loan items, smart memberships cards and cashless payment.

The public sector stream will also include a speaker from DWP about meeting the needs of an ageing society, an update on technology which makes it easier for partially sighted to use library computers and Lord Erroll talking about the requirements and risks of identity management in society.

I am confident you will find this a very interesting programme which will be complemented by the opportunity to network with other forum members and sponsors of the Forum.

Spaces are limited, so please let us know if you are interested in joining the event. You are also invited to register on the SCNF website so you can access all of the forum information and keep up to date with news and developments.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair
Smart Card Networking Forum

t: +44 (0) 1483 772241
m: +44 (0) 7785 361551
e: chair@scnf.org.uk
w: www.scnf.org.uk

Please follow our blog at http://scnfchairman.blogspot.com

We also Twitter at http://twitter.com/SCNF

SCNF Website - Case Studies & Searchable

2009-07-01T00:44:00.000-07:00

We have now completed the final stage of the new website which includes an area for case studies and ability to search the whole site. You will also see more current news and links to events on the front page. Follow this blog for the latest news.

For the first time you can see links to all the case studies covered in past SCNF events at www.scnf.org.uk/case.html. Case studies include transport, payment applications,

These case studies and the other outputs on the website are also searchable, so you can enter a theme, technology or application and find relevant information and examples. Why not give it a try and tell members what you find.

The programme for the SCNF stream at RFID Europe is taking shape with speakers from DWP, House of Lords and a Library Service. To register for the event email chair@scnf.org.uk. More details to follow.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
www.scnf.org.uk

LASSeO Desfire Specification

2009-06-24T14:25:00.000-07:00

Local Authorities issuing smartcards for transport (eg concessionary fares) are seeking guidance on which type of card to use and how to encode for multiple applications when they can no longer issue Mifare cards (ie after 31st Dec 2009).

Several SCNF Members and Sponsors support the Local Authority Smartcard Standards e-Organisation which is responsible for and maintains the specifications for encoding Local Authority smartcards. The current Mifare 4K specification is published on the SCNF website www.scnf.org.uk/nscp.html and has been adopted by the majority of concessionary fares schemes in England and many of the multi-application resident cards.

As concessionary schemes stop issuing Mifare cards, as required by ITSO, LASSeO is preparing an equivalent specification for the alternative Desfire card type. The specification is being prepared by SmartCitizen and sponsored by Bracknell Forest Council. This specification is undergoing final review before being published for use by Local Authorities and their suppliers.

The SCNF Core Group has set up a working group to plan how to disseminate guidance to Local Authority members and other smartcard issuers. The new LASSeO Desfire specification will be published on our website and a meeting is being planned for September to discuss the implications and opportunities for Local Authority schemes.

To receive updates on this initiative, please ensure you are registered as a SCNF member.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
www.scnf.org.uk

Feedback from Pre-Paid09

2009-06-20T02:10:00.000-07:00

Pre-paid09 marked another success since our re-launch. Over 35 people took part in the main Public Sector session which ran in parallel with a transport stream attended by other local authorities. There was a lively debate around the business case, media and applications.

In the masterclass we split into two groups, one discussed the use of pre-paid debit while the other covered low value e-purse. We will publish notes to members in due course.

Mastercard has become very active in this area and at short notice added a Pre-paid in Government workshop to the programme. This introduced some very interesting case studies from outside the UK. In future events we well press the organisers to bring these sessions together and publicise in advance. I am sure more members would have wanted to attend if they had know the range of topics being covered.

Look out for details of next event in Cambridge 29-30 Sept 09.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
www.scnf.org.uk

Football Stadia Survey

2009-06-18T18:01:00.001-07:00

Consulting Smart Ltd is conducting a short survey about football stadia on behalf of a client. The survey is just 5 questions mostly multiple choice and will only take 2-3 minutes to complete. It is also completely anonymous but if you do choose to provide your email address in the last question it will only be used for the purpose of updating you on the survey result. The survey can be found at http://www.eSurveysPro.com/Survey.aspx?id=b13e688c-281b-401a-8b97-a5453a2d88d0

We hope that you can find the time to help us and complete this survey which could help select the type of technologies you will see in Football stadia all over Europe in the coming years.

Steve Beecroft

Co-Chair Smart Card Networking Forum

See www.scnf.org.uk

SCNF at Pre-Paid09

2009-06-15T02:15:00.000-07:00

Public Sector attendees at Pre-Paid09 will have the opportunity to find out about and discuss alternative payment applications which can be readily added to a resident card.

Payment is no longer just about paying for school meals. During the Masterclass and panel discussion, you will learn about rollout of the sQuid e-purse in Scotland, the G2G Mastercard pre-paid card in Cambridgeshire and other pre-paid applications. You can find about the uses of a payment applications and practicalities of rolling out on a resident card.

For information about the event and to receive the post event report, contact chair@scnf.org.uk

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF

www.scnf.org.uk

SCNF New Core Group - May Meeting

2009-05-19T14:49:00.000-07:00

The newly elected SCNF Core Group that oversees the forum met earlier today to review progress on the re-launch and plans for the remainder of 2009.

The first task was to elect the Chair. Steve Beecroft & Kevin Farquharson had offered to continue as Joint Chair and were elected. Steve & Kevin took over the forum lead in November 2008 to see through the re-launch of the Forum which is now largely complete. The expectation of the Core Group is that a Local Authority representative will take over the lead in due course.

With a strengthening financial position, 15 active sponsors and events planned out into 2010, the Forum is well placed to respond to the needs of a growing membership. The Forum is free for public sector and not for profit organisations to join.

One of the first new initiatives is to setup a working group to understand the implications and prepare some guidance on changes occurring in Transport. The working group will be looking at the current DfT consultation on concessionary fares, the transition from Mifare cards in December and forthcoming DfT consultation on ticketing strategy. For further information or to contribute, please check the website, follow this blog or email the chair@scnf.org.uk.

The next Forum event is a masterclass session at 10am on 17th June at the Pre-Paid 09 event. See the website for details.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF

See www.scnf.org.uk

Smartcards take up in Schools

2009-05-14T12:58:00.000-07:00

We have undertaken some supplier research and discovered that use of cards and cashless catering in schools has grown dramatically from around 10% of schools 5 years ago to over 60% of secondary schools in 2009. Figures are difficult confirm as no one agency covers all service providers or institutions. Take up varies by area (eg most of Surrey schools, but far fewer in many London boroughs). What is take up in your area?

Given the levels of investment, range of applications and number of pupils and staff involved, further research may be warranted.

For more information about School and Youth applications, you can now find all the presentations and a summary in the members area.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
www.scnf.org.uk

SCNF at Retail & Transportation Cards May 09

2009-05-14T12:50:00.000-07:00

SCNF presented a summary of Local Authority schemes which involve transport and retail use. At the same event, delegates received an ITSO update, project manager's update from Yorcard project and insight into the Liverpool 08 card. Presentation will be in the members area next week.

A quick audience poll gave some interesting results:

100% in favour or multi-application cards
10% identifed with a local authority role in issuing an e-purse
Few felt there was a synergy between ID cards and local applications

Look for details on forthcoming events. Places are going fast for masterclass at Pre-Paid 09. Go to www.scnf.org.uk.

Kevin Farquharson

Co-Chair SCNF

www.scnf.org.uk

SCNF Blog now publishes via an RSS feed

2009-05-11T01:13:00.001-07:00

All,

One other way you can follow this blog is if you use an RSS reader (such as Google Reader). To subscribe to the RSS feed then please click on the following link or cut and paste it into your browser:-

http://scnfchairman.blogspot.com/rss.xml

Thanks to Leigh Garner of Thames Card Technologies

Hope this helps!

Steve Beecroft

Co-Chair

Smart Card Networking Forum

t: +44 (0) 208 123 0811

m: +44 (0) 7855 364493

e: chair@scnf.org.uk

w: www.scnf.org.uk

We also Twitter at http://twitter.com/SCNF

Pre-paid Masterclass

2009-05-09T02:08:00.000-07:00

The SCNF has a great offer for its Local Authority members who can join a SCNF masterclass on Pre-Paid in Transport, Low Value Payment or Personalised Care and attend the Pre-Paid09 event for free (numbers are limited).

During the sessions, delegates will be joined by experts in the field and have the opportunity to discuss issues and challenges in implementing these applications alongside transport and other smart card applications. The sessions will also include briefings on case studies of both EMV and e-purse applications. The objective is to help delegates discover how they could implement pre-paid in their service areas.

One of the first Local Authority pre-paid card is the Cambridgeshire G2G card (see www.g2gcard.co.uk) . This scheme has recently won an award for payment card schemes and will be one of the case studies discussed.

To attend, you only need to register on the new Forum website and send an email requesting full event details. If any commercial organisations are interested in attending, we have a discount offer for the delegate package.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
www.scnf.org.uk

DfT Ticketing Strategy

2009-05-07T14:44:00.000-07:00

Following close behind the DWP study into an ageing society, DfT is launch a consultation about ticketing strategy next month.

The SCNF Co-Chairs had an early meeting with the DfT team to identify some of the local initiatives which have delivered multi-application cards. We shared our impressions from recent meetings of local authorities' outlook and expectations.

When the consultation is announced, we will make members aware so you can raise questions and provide input to the DfT process. We would strongly encourage members and sponsors to engage with the consultation. We look forward to hearing the outcome of the exercise.

At our next event on 17th June, we will have a workshop session on payment cards in transport.

Kevin Farquharson & Steve Beecroft
Co-Chairs SCNF
see www.sncf.org.uk

SCNF at Pre Paid 09

2009-05-01T23:34:00.000-07:00

At Prepaid 09, SCNF will be running parallel masterclasses on Prepaid cards for low value payments, Transport and Personalised care. During the sessions, delegates will be joined by experts in the field and have the opportunity to discuss issues and challenges in implementing these applications. The session will also include briefing on case studies of both EMV and e-purse applications. The objective is to help delegates discover how they could implement pre-paid in their service areas.

SCNF will be inviting sponsors and industry experts at Pre-Paid to join the masterclasses.

SCNF Schools & Youth Event Success

2009-04-25T01:43:00.000-07:00

The Schools and Youth event was very well received by attendees on Thursday and we are very grateful to Thomas Deacon Academy for hosting the event. An event report, presentations, pictures and possibly some video will be posted in the members area.

In addition to finding out how cashless catering, access control and e-registration are becoming core systems in our secondary schools, attendees heard the latest feedback from youth card projects in Sunderland, Bolton, Scotland and London. Of particular note was the uptake in incentive schemes for target groups, use of pre-paid purses on cards and schools transport tracking system.

In the resume of year, we asked for thoughts on future events and activities. The response was:

Transport and transition from Mifare card types
Payment applications (good - next meeting)
Workshop sessions on application areas
Event hosted at LA with operational scheme
Business Case
Data integration approach in multi-app scheme
Influencing decision makers

If you ideas or input for future events, take a look at the website, comment on the blog and let us have your feedback.

Kevin Farquharson

Co-Chair SCNF & Event Chair

http://www.scnf.org.uk/

Improving the Outcome for Children in Care

2009-04-20T01:02:00.000-07:00

One of the themes of the SCNF Schools & Youth event is how smartcard technology can be used to improve the opportunities and to remove the stigma for children in care. The meeting on Thursday will cover a number of initiatives and proven approaches to make it easier to target financial support at those in greatest need. The case studies from Bolton and Sunderland cover two initiatives to help children in care and from poorer backgrounds to participate in more activities, while other examples will show how free school meal entitlement can be administered without identifying those benefiting. A number of the current initiatives recognise that the needs of Looked After Children extend well beyond their 16th birthday and provide benefits for this vulnerable group through into their early 20s.

The current debate about the care system for children highlights the variations across the country and need for additional targeted support to give these children the opportunities to participate in a wider range of activities, take advantage of services offered by local authorities and improve their personal outcome when they finally leave school and the care system.

There are a few last remaining places left for the SCNF event on 23rd April in Peterborough. We welcome your feedback on the use of entitlement cards at the meeting, via the Chair’s blog and email to the SCNF.

Kevin Farquharson & Steve Beecroft
Joint Chair SCNF
See www.scnf.org.uk

Research of Local Authority experience

2009-04-17T03:51:00.000-07:00

DWP – Ageing Society Strategy

The Forum has received a request from the DWP for examples of the use of smartcards by older people to access different services. Anyone with a case study should contact Phil Martin by email phil.martin2@dwp.gsi.gov.uk or call 020 7449 7019.

This is one of a number of recent requests for research about our members and the market. If you have information on uptake of applications and services which may be of interest to members, we can make it available through the website.

Kevin Farquharson
Joint Chair SCNF

see www.scnf.or.uk

SCNF Schools & Youth Event 23rd April

2009-04-16T01:46:00.000-07:00

Our next SCNF event is only a week away and we wanted to give you an insight into the key messages we are expecting to come out from the day in Peterborough.

"For the first time, the SCNF is bringing together at a single event, the definitive initiatives and case studies for combined youth and school cards. School and public sector representatives will learn about schemes which provide incentives for young people, access to services and more efficient school administration. Our Local Authority speakers will cover case studies from London, Bolton, Sunderland and Scotland.

The event will explore how school students can use ONE card at school for a range of applications and access to transport and other services beyond the school gate."

If you are already registered to attend, you should have received confirmation details. We have space for a few more Public Sector delegates, so sign up and let us know you wish to come.

We look forward to meeting you on the 23rd.

Regards

Kevin Farquharson
Join Chair SCNF
For SCNF Core Group

“Welcome to the “From the Chair” blog

2009-03-27T02:49:00.000-07:00

This is a brand new feature to our forum and coincides with the official SCNF re-launch and announcement of our Schools & Youth Event in Peterborough on the 23rd April.

In this blog the co-Chairs Kevin Farquharson and Steve Beecroft we will be updating you on all things smart card, relating to local authority implementations and of course seeking your input and comment too. So…….why not help shape the future of smart card projects across the sector and contribute with your comments and share your experiences? Your input and feedback is critical to the ongoing success of the Forum.

We will also be reviewing how other developments in smart card technology outside of council deployments and comment on how they might be used to help local authorities deliver services to their residents.

For our first Official blog we want to up date you on the re-launch and the next event Schools & Youth Event in Peterborough on the 23rd April. We also need to announce the short AGM during the course of the meeting.

Since November, the Core Group has overseen a busy period of renewal of the SCNF. When you next connect to the website, you will find the re-branding launched on 12th March, a comprehensive programme of events and of course a much more useful and effective website www.scnf.org. We hope you will be pleased with the results and make better use of the forum contacts and resources. We very much welcome feedback, comments and suggestions from our members.

The SCNF Schools and Youth Event, sponsored by Sentinel EasyTrace will showcase and discuss applications for schools and youth services and will include speakers from Bolton Council, Sunderland City Council, Young Scot Card, Kingston Council and Your London Card Scheme. We look forward to meeting members at this exciting event.

Traditionally our AGMs are very short, however as part of the AGM, we must elect the Core Group members for the coming year. This year we expect to be able to elect up to 5 new Full Members to the Core Group. Current Core Group members, any Full Members and Sponsor members may nominate themselves for election by contacting the Treasurer and Chair. Each nominee must name a seconder from another organisation (Sponsor or Full Member). Rest assured, we won’t co-opt anyone on sight at the event!

Visit the website today and experience the new look and easier to access information. We look forward to networking with you all”

Regards

Kevin Farquharson & Steve Beecroft

Joint Chairman Smart Card Networking Forum
See www.scnf.org.uk