Digital Iceland's role is expanding

The digital transformation is based on nine core solutions that are continuously being developed, and each month new service options and opportunities to simplify people's lives are added. Work has also been done to make data from agencies accessible through secure data communication via the data exchange layer, Straumurinn (X-Road).

Data management within Digital Iceland

There are significant opportunities in making better use of public data. Improved data utilisation simplifies services and operations, enhances oversight and collaboration, and ensures access to up-to-date information. This leads to clearer outcomes, reduced duplication, and greater efficiency.

In 2025, Digital Iceland took on a more active role in this area, including appointing a Chief Data Officer to lead efforts in mapping government data, developing and implementing technical and quality standards, and advancing shared data infrastructure—similar to the approach used for the Ísland.is front end.

Digital Iceland will not, however, operate and handle all government data; this will remain the responsibility of the agencies but will be structured in a standardised way on a common data infrastructure.

Architecture for government information technology

There are also significant opportunities in modernising legacy systems and increasing standardisation across backend and operational systems in the public sector. This is an urgent and complex task, as much of the underlying infrastructure is outdated. Analysis shows that many core systems qualify as legacy systems, highlighting the need for stronger coordination, system mapping, and the development and implementation of common standards across agencies.

A new Enterprise Architect role will be central to this effort. Based within Digital Iceland, the role will focus on mapping existing systems, identifying synergies, and developing standards to guide system renewal and future development. Digital Iceland will not take over the operation or maintenance of agency backend systems but act as a coordinating and guiding body, supporting alignment and leading key initiatives.

A new dimension in collaboration

Successful development and modernisation of public services depend on strong collaboration and capacity building. Digital Iceland plays a leading role in service transformation, with success driven by close cooperation, a shared vision, and continuous development.