Considerations for Transitioning from BIMS to MOSIP*

A Modernization Strategy

Prepared for UNHCR

Why Transition?

 
BIMS Challenges
- High maintenance costs
- Performance bottlenecks and scalability issues
- Limited testing capabilities
- Vendor lock-in (partial)

 
MOSIP Benefits
- Open-source and modular
- Scalable biometric management
- Cost-effective implementation
- Interoperability
- Standards Compliant

 

Key Transition Considerations

Efficient Biometric Synchronization

  • Real-time syncing between field & central servers
  • Offline mode with sync-on-connectivity
  • Incremental updates to reduce bandwidth usage

Migration Challenges

  • Standardizing biometric interfaces
  • Ensuring batch processing efficiency
  • Training & adoption for field teams
  • Biometric Storage and Quality
  • Workflow

Registration / Adjudication Client

  • Integration to existing client
  • New design?
  • Security and Vulnerability

Possible Roadmap for Implementation

Phase Action Items Key Outcomes
Phase 1 Assess BIMS architecture, workflow & sync needs Identify technical gaps
Phase 2 Pilot MOSIP for refugee biometric enrollments Validate performance
Phase 3 Develop synchronization mechanisms Ensure seamless data updates
Phase 4 Full-scale Migration Sunset BIMS, transition to MOSIP

Conclusion & Next Steps

Proposed Next Steps:

- Scoping workflow and sync changes for MOSIP.

- Establish a working group

UNHCR and MOSIP

By Ted Dunstone

UNHCR and MOSIP

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