2017 North American Biometric Identity Management New Product Innovation Award NORTH AMERICAN BIOMETRIC IDENTITY MANAGEMENT NEW PRODUCT INNOVATION AWARD 2017
2017 North AmericanBiometric Identity ManagementNew Product Innovation Award
NORTH AMERICANBIOMETRIC IDENTITY MANAGEMENT NEW PRODUCT INNOVATION AWARD
2017
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Contents
Background and Company Performance ........................................................................ 3
Industry Challenges .............................................................................................. 3
New Product Attributes and Customer Impact .......................................................... 3
Conclusion........................................................................................................... 6
Significance of New Product Innovation ......................................................................... 7
Understanding New Product Innovation ......................................................................... 7
Key Benchmarking Criteria .................................................................................... 8
New Product Attributes ......................................................................................... 8
Customer Impact ................................................................................................. 8
Decision Support Matrix ........................................................................................ 9
Best Practices Recognition: 10 Steps to Researching, Identifying, and Recognizing Best Practices ................................................................................................................. 10
The Intersection between 360-Degree Research and Best Practices Awards ..................... 11
Research Methodology ........................................................................................ 11
About Frost & Sullivan .............................................................................................. 11
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Background and Company Performance
Industry Challenges
The frequency at which data breaches are happening globally is alarming, with more than
100 breaches reported since 2015. This is a major challenge to 'C' level personnel across
several enterprises because it results in negative branding for the organization. Traditional
authentication methods such as passwords, PIN, and tokens are increasingly becoming
obsolete as each of these methods have security vulnerabilities that may lead to data
breaches. As companies such as Apple and Samsung have embraced biometric
technologies, adoption in other verticals witnessed a gradual increase. This gave
companies the capability to offer customers enhanced data security with necessary
convenience. As biometric usage/deployment rises across organizations globally,
companies differentiate themselves through technology superiority, value addition,
service, or performance.
New Product Attributes and Customer Impact
Match to Needs
Headquartered in San Diego, California, ImageWare Systems (IWS) offers multimodal
biometric identity solution to leading organizations across North America. The company's
clientele encompasses verticals such as government, healthcare, and commercial. IWS has
been on the forefront of innovation, which has been evident through its introduction of
GoVerifyID® and its IWS Biometric Engine® solutions. IWS solutions are future proof and
focused on addressing key industry challenges. IWS constantly engages with its customers
at various forums to understand their pain points. This feedback is aligned directly with
the company’s new product development and customer retention strategies.
As enterprises expand globally, their networks are open to multiple stakeholders at
various levels. Additionally, it is understood that nearly 50% of enterprises globally permit
bring your own device (BYOD). Hence, the potential of security risks within the network is
considerably increased. With passwords slowly becoming obsolete, biometrics is growing
in significance across applications to protect user data. In lieu with this trend, IWS
introduced GoVerifyID in 2016, an end-to-end multimodal biometric solution that is
scalable and device agnostic.
Data breaches in healthcare continue to be a major target for hackers accounting for a
significant percent of the data breaches globally. IWS' GoVerifyID provides significant
benefits in various applications across the healthcare vertical to address such data
breaches. For example, in the event of any hospital personnel trying to access a patient's
health information (PHI), the GoVerifyID solution prompts the user to authenticate
themselves using the GoVerifyID mobile application on their phone. The pillPhone®, a
companion application specifically build for the healthcare market, incorporates GoVerifyID
and is the only FDA-cleared biometrically secured mHealth app on the market. The user
can authenticate using their fingerprint, face, or voice, and any future biometric
modalities, making it convenient for the user without compromising on security.
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Positioning
The introduction of fingerprint sensors in Apple iPhones and Samsung phones resulted in a
gradual increase in the use of biometrics across applications in verticals such as finance,
retail, and healthcare. Despite increased use of biometric-enabled smartphones, certain
challenges exist, like repeated enrolling as device changes and vulnerability to being lost
or stolen. Through its GoVerifyID Enterprise Suite, IWS addressed these challenges by
offering identity authentication as a cloud service. IWS’ target market was enterprises and
with Windows and Microsoft Azure ecosystems dominating enterprises, integration of
GoVerifyID Enterprise Suite with the Microsoft ecosystem enables IWS to offer multifactor
authentication and single sign-on for a majority of enterprises. The biometric data of users
is stored in a database on the cloud in an anonymous binary format, thereby enhancing
security and rendering the data useless if compromised. IWS’ competitive advantage
among biometric identity management solution vendors is the backend scalable database
that stores the user biometric data. This database serves as the backbone to the
enterprise suite. This feature provided by IWS results in the unique positioning of the
enterprise solution.
Also, IWS' biometric product line includes its patented IWS Biometric Engine, which is
used for high volume and high-speed applications. The product is offered either as a Web-
based model or as a software development kit (SDK) that can be customized according to
the specific needs of the customers.
Price/Performance Value
Despite an increase in enquiries of biometric solutions across vertical markets,
deployment time and interoperability remains a major deterrent to the adoption of these
solutions. Surpassing industry expectations, IWS offers the best value for the money to
clients with regard to optimum quality, seamless integration, and the prompt addressing
of user needs. IWS has nearly two decades of experience in the biometric industry and
built its brand through its deployments in law enforcement applications. IWS recently
introduced GoVerifyID Enterprise Suite, which is compatible with Windows operating
systems. The solution is device agnostic and allows user authentication via the cloud. The
database allows the dynamic matching of biometric data with high accuracy levels and
returns a match within a second. The solution can be deployed in minutes at various levels
(cloud, server & client) within the enterprise. Also, as IWS positions its solutions as a
service, customers only pay for their usage and eliminate the involvement of any upfront
cost. Customers can opt for IWS' turnkey offering or customize based application and their
requirements, thereby offering flexibility to its customers. IWS continues to invest in
research and development to ensure future proof biometric authentication is achieved.
Brand Equity
Enterprises are increasingly moving towards software-based business models, resulting in
increased emphasis on security. IWS has developed strategic partnerships with leading
organizations such as Fujitsu, CA Technologies, SAP, HPE, and Microsoft to provide its
solutions and enhance its biometric footprint across vertical markets. For example, IWS
has interfaced its GoVerifyID solution with CA Single Sign-On (SSO) from CA
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Technologies, a leading provider of IT management software. CA SSO provides customers
access to various applications through a single passphrase. The integration provides CA
Technologies' customers with a flexible mobile biometric authentication. Also, IWS
solutions globally enhance its brand visibility by being compatible with the Microsoft
ecosystem. Furthermore, GoVerifyID Enterprise Suite achieved certification for Microsoft
Windows Server in January 2017, showcasing the interoperability of its solutions with the
Microsoft ecosystem. Smart Origination, a customer onboarding technology, was
developed through a unique partnership of the following organizations—Fujitsu,
ImageWare Systems, InAuth, Intelligent Environments, Mitek, and Trunomi. The
technology was targeted at reducing identity theft and IWS was chosen for its multimodal
biometric mobile and cloud identity management solutions. Partnering with a leading
FinTech firms in developing an innovative technology is augmenting IWS’ brand value
globally across verticals.
Customer Ownership Experience
Empowered by nearly two decades of experience in the biometric industry coupled with
changing the paradigm of connected living, IWS has delivered solutions that will provide
flexibility, convenience, and security at optimum pricing. With its proactive approach, the
company is considerably ahead of competitors in terms of technology and holds several
patents for its innovations. IWS earned its credentials by serving government applications
and is focused on expanding its footprint into commercial applications. IWS is investing in
human capital to capitalize on the opportunities in the biometric space and enhance its
commercial footprint. ImageWare’s executive management has surrounded themselves
with solid talent in R&D, Product Management, marketing, sales, including its board
members. IWS' recent appointment of Mr. Kammersgard is a testament to this strategic
direction. Mr. Kammergard has co-founded and held senior management roles with
several companies and will be a valuable asset to IWS. He has joined the board of
directors at IWS and has been known to develop small companies into leading brands in
their respective industries.
IWS' GoVerifyID offers the industry's first multifactor authentication solution to reset
passwords using biometrics. For example, IWS has partnered with Avatier, an IT software
management company that enables integration of GoVerifyID with Avatier's product suite.
This enables IWS to offer its solutions to Avatier's customers such as Nordstrom, Marriott,
DHL, and Volkswagen. The company’s solutions, coupled with strategic partnerships, have
resulted in IWS being recognized by CIOReview as one of the most promising CA
Technology Solution Providers in 2016.
Customer Purchase Experience
Through strategic partnerships with leading brands in the IT software management space,
IWS is expanding its branding and footprint across companies in the commercial space. In
offering its solution as a service, the company provides customers the flexibility to scale
as they need and pay as they use. This provides a perfect balance between price and
performance in addition to addressing critical needs of customers. Hence, customers are
compelled to buy IWS' solutions and enjoy an optimized purchase experience.
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Conclusion
IWS’ strategy to excel in the biometric industry is noteworthy. It has a strong eye for
innovation that is bolstered by its customer feedback, which is incorporated into the
product development process. Having gathered huge accolades from the industry for its
innovative cloud/mobile multifactor biometric authentication solution, the company is
perfectly positioned to enhance its market position. The solution’s technical superiority,
user friendliness, business model, and ability to satisfy customers on a broad scale has
provided IWS the boost needed to indicate its excellence over similar participants.
With its strong overall performance, IWS has earned Frost & Sullivan’s 2017 New Product
Innovation Award.
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Significance of New Product Innovation
Ultimately, growth in any organization depends upon continually introducing new products
to the market and successfully commercializing those products. For these dual goals to
occur, a company must be best-in-class in three key areas: understanding demand,
nurturing the brand, and differentiating from the competition.
Understanding New Product Innovation
Innovation is about finding a productive outlet for creativity—for consistently translating
ideas into high-quality products that have a profound impact on the customer.
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Key Benchmarking Criteria
For the New Product Innovation Award, Frost & Sullivan analysts independently evaluated
two key factors—New Product Attributes and Customer Impact—according to the criteria
identified below.
New Product Attributes
Criterion 1: Match to Needs
Requirement: Customer needs directly influence and inspire the product’s design and
positioning.
Criterion 2: Reliability
Requirement: The product consistently meets or exceeds customer expectations for
consistent performance during its entire life cycle.
Criterion 3: Quality
Requirement: Product offers best-in-class quality, with a full complement of features and
functionalities.
Criterion 4: Positioning
Requirement: The product serves a unique, unmet need that competitors cannot easily
replicate.
Criterion 5: Design
Requirement: The product features an innovative design, enhancing both visual appeal
and ease of use.
Customer Impact
Criterion 1: Price/Performance Value
Requirement: Products or services offer the best value for the price, compared to similar
offerings in the market.
Criterion 2: Customer Purchase Experience
Requirement: Customers feel they are buying the most optimal solution that addresses
both their unique needs and their unique constraints.
Criterion 3: Customer Ownership Experience
Requirement: Customers are proud to own the company’s product or service and have a
positive experience throughout the life of the product or service.
Criterion 4: Customer Service Experience
Requirement: Customer service is accessible, fast, stress-free, and of high quality.
Criterion 5: Brand Equity
Requirement: Customers have a positive view of the brand and exhibit high brand loyalty.
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Decision Support Matrix
Once all companies have been evaluated according to the Decision Support Scorecard,
analysts then position the candidates on the matrix shown below, enabling them to
visualize which companies are truly breakthrough and which ones are not yet operating at
best-in-class levels.
High
Low
Low High
Cu
sto
mer I
mp
act
New Product Attributes
ImageWare Systems
Competitor 2
Competitor 3
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Best Practices Recognition: 10 Steps to Researching,
Identifying, and Recognizing Best Practices
Frost & Sullivan analysts follow a 10-step process to evaluate Award candidates and
assess their fit with select best practice criteria. The reputation and integrity of the
Awards are based on close adherence to this process.
STEP OBJECTIVE KEY ACTIVITIES OUTPUT
1 Monitor, target, and screen
Identify Award recipient candidates from around the globe
Conduct in-depth industry research
Identify emerging sectors
Scan multiple geographies
Pipeline of candidates who potentially meet all best-practice criteria
2 Perform 360-degree research
Perform comprehensive, 360-degree research on all candidates in the pipeline
Interview thought leaders and industry practitioners
Assess candidates’ fit with best-practice criteria
Rank all candidates
Matrix positioning of all candidates’ performance relative to one another
3
Invite thought leadership in best practices
Perform in-depth examination of all candidates
Confirm best-practice criteria Examine eligibility of all
candidates Identify any information gaps
Detailed profiles of all ranked candidates
4
Initiate research director review
Conduct an unbiased evaluation of all candidate profiles
Brainstorm ranking options Invite multiple perspectives
on candidates’ performance Update candidate profiles
Final prioritization of all eligible candidates and companion best-practice positioning paper
5
Assemble panel of industry experts
Present findings to an expert panel of industry thought leaders
Share findings Strengthen cases for
candidate eligibility Prioritize candidates
Refined list of prioritized Award candidates
6
Conduct global industry review
Build consensus on Award candidates’ eligibility
Hold global team meeting to review all candidates
Pressure-test fit with criteria Confirm inclusion of all
eligible candidates
Final list of eligible Award candidates, representing success stories worldwide
7 Perform quality check
Develop official Award consideration materials
Perform final performance benchmarking activities
Write nominations Perform quality review
High-quality, accurate, and creative presentation of nominees’ successes
8
Reconnect with panel of industry experts
Finalize the selection of the best-practice Award recipient
Review analysis with panel Build consensus Select recipient
Decision on which company performs best against all best-practice criteria
9 Communicate recognition
Inform Award recipient of Award recognition
Present Award to the CEO Inspire the organization for
continued success Celebrate the recipient’s
performance
Announcement of Award and plan for how recipient can use the Award to enhance the brand
10 Take strategic action
Upon licensing, company is able to share Award news with stakeholders and customers
Coordinate media outreach Design a marketing plan Assess Award’s role in future
strategic planning
Widespread awareness of recipient’s Award status among investors, media personnel, and employees
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The Intersection between 360-Degree Research and Best
Practices Awards
Research Methodology
Frost & Sullivan’s 360-degree research
methodology represents the analytical
rigor of our research process. It offers a
360-degree-view of industry challenges,
trends, and issues by integrating all 7 of
Frost & Sullivan's research methodologies.
Too often companies make important
growth decisions based on a narrow
understanding of their environment,
leading to errors of both omission and
commission. Successful growth strategies
are founded on a thorough understanding
of market, technical, economic, financial,
customer, best practices, and demographic
analyses. The integration of these research
disciplines into the 360-degree research
methodology provides an evaluation
platform for benchmarking industry
participants and for identifying those performing at best-in-class levels.
About Frost & Sullivan
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and achieve best-in-class positions in growth, innovation and leadership. The company's
Growth Partnership Service provides the CEO and the CEO's Growth Team with disciplined
research and best practice models to drive the generation, evaluation, and implementation
of powerful growth strategies. Frost & Sullivan leverages more than 50 years of
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please visit http://www.frost.com.
360-DEGREE RESEARCH: SEEING ORDER IN
THE CHAOS