Register
Use this pattern when users need to register themselves, their organisation, or something they are responsible for with a service. Examples include registering:
- as an organ donor
- a power of attorney
- as a care provider
- a food business
- a charity
Registration may be permanent or time-limited and need renewal. For some services, users may need to register before they can apply for licences, permits or other services.
Characteristics of this service type
Registration services typically involve:
- user accounts
- identity and access management
- storing information over time
- ongoing interaction with users
- notifications and status updates
- allowing users to return and update information
Unlike simple transactions, registration services are designed to support a continuing relationship between the user and the service.
Common journey patterns
Registration services often include a combination of other service patterns. Before registration, users may need to:
- learn about the service
- check eligibility or suitability
During registration, users may need to:
- log in or create an account
- provide information about themselves or their organisation
- upload evidence
- prove their identity or authority
- confirm the information they have entered
After registration, users may need to:
- receive updates
- check progress
- renew their registration
- challenge a decision
- appeal a decision
- make a complaint
Not all registration services will require all of these patterns.
Common solutions used in this pattern
Using common solutions can reduce delivery time, improve consistency and help teams benefit from proven approaches across the Scottish public sector.
| User need | Common component |
|---|---|
| Learn about a service | mygov.scot, gov.scot, Design System |
| Create an account and verify identity | ScotAccount |
| Complete registration forms | GOV.UK Forms |
| Upload evidence | SG Cloud |
| Recieve updates and communications | GOV.UK Notify |
| Pay a registration fee | GOV.UK Pay |
| Check the progress of a registration | Status checker services |
Relationship to other service patterns
Register and Apply are closely related patterns.
Use Register when the primary purpose is to create and maintain a record or ongoing relationship with a service.
Use Apply when the primary purpose is to request a decision, entitlement, benefit, licence or permit.
A service may use both patterns. For example, a user might first register with a service and then apply for a licence.