Etjenester

Etjenester, or electronic services, refer to digital services delivered through electronic channels, most commonly over the internet. They enable citizens, businesses and organizations to interact with public authorities and private providers without physical presence. E-tjenester cover information, communication, applications, payments and the exchange of data, often through centralized portals or service platforms.

In the public sector, etjenester include digital forms, online applications, authentication, secure messaging and digital feedback mechanisms. In Norway, for example, platforms such as Altinn provide digital forms and submissions to government agencies, while ID-porten handles authentication and Digipost offers secure electronic mail. Public health, tax and social services increasingly rely on e-tjenester to streamline processes and improve accessibility. Across Europe, e-tjenester are supported by regulations and cross-border systems, including the eIDAS framework for electronic identification and signatures.

The adoption of etjenester brings benefits such as 24/7 accessibility, faster processing, reduced paperwork and potential cost savings for both authorities and users. However, challenges include ensuring digital inclusion for people with limited internet access or digital literacy, protecting privacy and security, implementing strong authentication and consent models, and achieving interoperability between different systems and data standards under data protection rules.

Looking forward, etjenester are likely to expand through open APIs, greater cross-border interoperability, and enhanced automation and AI support, while maintaining robust privacy protections and user-centered design. These trends aim to make public and private sector services more seamless, secure and efficient.