Overall conclusions

Abstract

We have covered a lot of ground in this book. More perhaps than would ordinarily be expected in a work focusing on a single enabling technology such as biometric identity verification. We have looked at the origins of the concept in the ancient world and how the idea of using anatomical and behavioral characteristics in order to identify an individual has seemed logical to different cultures at different times. We have also briefly touched upon developments in the field of electronics and how these have made possible the automation of biometric identity verification in a cost-effective and realistic manner. We have even looked at typical applications for biometrics and of course have explored the various popular methodologies and their particular characteristics as might have been expected. Perhaps slightly less expected were the sections on application development and the setting up and running of a biometric pilot scheme. However, these are very pertinent issues, especially at this stage in the overall development and acceptance of biometric technology in relation to everyday processes.