Port of Seattle Biometrics Facilitation

Biometrics is the measurement and analysis of physical (i.e. facial features or fingerprint) and behavioral characteristics (i.e., voice, signature, how someone walks) that are used to identify individuals through technology. The Port of Seattle has historically used various forms of biometric technology at its facilities to control access and verify employee, contract, or vendor identities.

In December 2019, the Port of Seattle Commission adopted seven guiding principles for public-facing biometric technology at the Port’s facilities. In 2020, our team facilitated an External Advisory Group to review and refine the policy recommendations for public-facing biometric technology at the Port’s facilities. This External Advisory Group was comprised of representatives from civil liberties organizations, airlines, cruises, the tech industry, and state and federal agencies. The External Advisory Group process was aligned with the policy development process that was happening simultaneously with an Internal Working Group and the Port Commissioners.  

We were responsible for facilitating and gathering recommendations from group members in a balanced, sensitive, and action-oriented manner that results in feasible biometric policies for the Port.