Decentralized Identity and Access Management (IAM) and Self-Sovereign Identity

Abstract

Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI) represents a ground breaking, user-focused approach to digital identity management. This paradigm shifts the control of personal data back to the user, diverging from traditional centralized models that depend on third-party verification. SSI is gaining significant momentum, particularly in the blockchain sphere, where its principles align seamlessly with decentralized technologies. This growing interest is reflected in the increasing volume of scholarly articles and industry discussions on the topic. As SSI is still an emerging area, its landscape is continuously evolving. To provide a detailed and structured overview of the field, researchers have employed systematic mapping techniques. This method involves an in-depth examination and categorization of academic papers, focusing on various dimensions such as the type of contribution, application areas, related IT fields, research methodologies, and publication venues. This structured approach aids in understanding the depth and breadth of current research, highlighting prevalent themes, demographic trends, and potential areas for future investigation. The analysis reveals a dominant focus on validation research and the development of solutions for decentralized identities. Most studies present new systems, designs, and conceptual frameworks. These primarily address key aspects like authentication processes, enhancing security and privacy measures, and establishing trust. However, there is a notable gap in research related to the user aspect of SSI, such as its usability, user experience, design patterns, and best practices. This indicates a significant area for future research, emphasizing the need to balance technical advancement with user-centric design in the evolving landscape of Self-Sovereign Identity.