The ISWG aims to bring diverse minds and opinions together to generate support on issues related to the Inputs (Identity management), Semantic (Data management), and Governance (Access management) domains through a series of position papers that bring cohesion to data entry, data capture, and data governance processes and standards throughout the Trust over IP stack.
How to Write a Position Paper
The purpose of a position paper is to generate support on an issue. It describes a position on an issue and the rationale for that position. Base a position paper on facts that provide a solid foundation for an argument. The position paper should:
- Use evidence to support the position, such as statistical evidence or dates and events.
- Validate the position with authoritative references or primary source quotations.
- Examine the strengths and weaknesses of the position.
- Evaluate possible solutions and suggest courses of action.
Choose an issue with a clear division of opinion and which is arguable with facts and inductive reasoning. You may choose an issue on which you have already formed an opinion. However, in writing about this issue, you must examine your opinion of the issue critically. Before writing your position paper, define and limit your issue carefully. Social issues are complex, with multiple solutions. Narrow the topic of your position paper to something manageable. Research your issue thoroughly, consulting experts and obtaining primary documents. Consider feasibility, cost-effectiveness and political/social climate when evaluating possible solutions and courses of action.
Current List of Submitted Position Paper Proposals
The current list of submitted ISWG Position Paper Proposals can be viewed here.
How to Start the Submission Process
The submission process is lightweight by design. To start the process, please fill in the ISWG Position Paper Submission Form here.
How to Structure the Position Paper
To facilitate reading and distribution, the typical length of a position paper is usually between 500 and 800 words.
The introduction should clearly identify the issue and state the author’s position. It should be written in a way that catches the reader’s attention.
The body of the position paper may contain several paragraphs. Each paragraph should present an idea or main concept that clarifies a portion of the position statement and is supported by evidence or facts. Evidence can be primary source quotations, statistical data, interviews with experts, and indisputable dates or events. Evidence should lead, through inductive reasoning, to the main concept or idea presented in the paragraph. The body may begin with some background information and should incorporate a discussion of both sides of the issue.
The conclusion should summarize the main concepts and ideas and reinforce, without repeating, the introduction or body of the paper. It could include suggested courses of action and possible solutions.
In order to keep a uniform structure for all ISWG Position Papers, please make an editable copy of the ISWG Position Paper Template here and start drafting.
To fully understand the content and structure of the template, please read the ISWG Position Paper Guide here.