1. What is the mission and vision of the University of Sherbrooke?
As a leading research university recognized for the originality of its programs, the University of Sherbrooke is committed to working with its communities to train responsible citizens that will change the world. That is why the University of Sherbrooke has created an Interdisciplinary Research group that brings together over 14 professors committed to developing Canadian expertise in digital identity.
2. Why is trustworthy digital identity critical for existing and emerging markets?
Identity has been central to civilization since the dawn of time. It serves to establish the structure and functioning of society. A trusted digital identity is therefore critical for existing and emerging markets because the digitization of our societies must be supported by standardization of digital identity that favours the continuum of exchanges of goods, services and information while maintaining an adequate quality of service. Thus, it now seems trivial that the protection of privacy relies as much on a sound management of personal information, including cybersecurity, as on a strict control of any secondary use of data that could be associated with our identity.
3. How will digital identity transform the Canadian and global economy? How does your organization address challenges associated with this transformation?
Digitization is pervasive in our society. It is a fundamental part of every democratic action and business transaction. With digital transformation, the reality of the market forces businesses to outdo themselves in order to offer products and services at ever-improving prices. As a result, digital identity is becoming the cornerstone of the current and future development of our organizations. This pressure is sustainable if businesses manage their means of production in an agile and sustainable way. Universities are experiencing this transformation through the accelerated renewal of their course offerings, the need to implement a digital campus, the way they reach their clientele and the acceleration of certain research. Among the challenges is the research on the trust relationship necessary for the proper functioning of digital identification.
4. What role does Canada have to play as a leader in this space?
Canada has caught up and is now considered a world leader in digital identity. This is fundamental because every transaction or action in a system relies on the correct identification of the third parties involved – people, organizations and objects. In addition, efficient digital identity management enables economies of scale that benefit all Canadians.
5. Why did your organization join the DIACC?
As an academic researcher interested in digital identity, this is a key interest group, connecting key players from business, government, academia and other key stakeholders. The DIACC has an established structure and drives a lean operation with international visibility. They help make research relevant by making digital identity issues visible, including through their design, governance, operationalization, standardization, etc.
6. What else should we know about your organization?
The University of Sherbrooke’s reputation for dynamism and innovation attracts students and professors from all over the world. Its international partnerships and human, intellectual and scientific potential allow it to be an actor of global change. In 2020-2021, the University will have 31,328 students in the three cycles of higher education in eight faculties supported by 7,398 people. Do not hesitate to contact us for more information.