Introduction to Customer Identity and Access Management

Abstract

Customer Identity and Access Management (CIAM) refers to the processes and technologies that facilitate secure interactions between individuals and organizations. In particular, this article focuses on those that secure digital interactions. Whether the organization is in the public or private sector, the need to interact digitally is essential in this day and age – regardless of whether those interactions are to transact commercially, access social services, attend an online class, etc. While CIAM shares some concepts and technologies with workforce IAM, the two are sufficiently distinct to warrant further investigation. This article compares and contrasts the two while highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities inherent to CIAM.