Scope of the Document

This document outlines a comprehensive set of guidelines for designing and implementing user-centric digital platforms in government. The scope extends to both mobile applications and web applications, ensuring that services are inclusive, accessible, and efficient across all digital touchpoints.

1. Mobile Applications

Mobile applications are critical for providing on-the-go access to government services, especially in a mobile-first environment where smartphones are the primary mode of internet access for many users.

Key Considerations:
  1. Mobile-First Design: Emphasize mobile-first principles to ensure that platforms are optimized for smaller screens and varying device specifications.
  2. Offline Capabilities: Include features that allow partial or full functionality in areas with limited or no internet connectivity.
  3. Device Compatibility: Ensure compatibility with a wide range of devices, operating systems, and screen sizes, from entry-level smartphones to high-end tablets.
  4. Touch-Friendly Interfaces: Design interfaces with larger touch targets and minimal reliance on precision gestures to accommodate all users, including those with motor impairments.
Examples of Applications in Scope:
  • Mobile apps for citizen services like tax filing, subsidy applications, and health scheme registrations.
  • State-specific apps providing regional language support and localized services.

2. Web Applications

Web applications serve as foundational platforms for delivering digital services, offering a versatile interface accessible from desktops, laptops, and mobile browsers.

Key Considerations:
  1. Responsive Design: Ensure websites adapt seamlessly to different screen sizes and resolutions, providing a consistent user experience across devices.
  2. Accessibility Compliance: Adhere to standards like WCAG to make web platforms usable for individuals with disabilities, including screen reader compatibility and keyboard navigation.
  3. Performance Optimization: Minimize page load times and optimize content delivery for users with low bandwidth connections.
  4. Scalability: Design systems that can handle increasing user loads as government services expand.
Examples of Applications in Scope:
  • E-Governance portals such as tax payment systems, land record management, and grievance redressal platforms.
  • Departmental websites offering citizen services, announcements, and policy updates.

3. Shared Features Across Mobile and Web Applications

To ensure consistency and reliability, the following features are applicable to both mobile and web applications:

  1. User Authentication and Security:
  • Implement robust authentication mechanisms, such as two-factor authentication, to secure user data.
  • Ensure SSL encryption for secure communication.
  1. Personalization:
  • Provide features like location-based services, user profiles, and customizable dashboards to enhance engagement.
  1. Localization:
  • Support multiple languages and regional preferences to cater to the diverse population.
  1. Feedback Mechanisms:
  • Enable users to submit feedback directly within the application to ensure continuous improvement.
  1. Exclusions

The guidelines do not cover:

  1. Internal-facing applications that are not intended for citizen use (e.g., administrative tools for internal operations).
  2. Non-digital platforms, such as paper-based systems or offline-only services.

Conclusion

By addressing the unique requirements of both mobile and web applications, this document ensures that government platforms deliver seamless, inclusive, and user-friendly experiences. These guidelines provide a unified approach to designing systems that cater to diverse user needs while adhering to accessibility and usability standards.

« »