Introduction
The Citizen Facing Reference Architecture provides a clear and structured view of how UK government digital services interact within a complex and highly varied environment. In reality, the landscape includes many organisations, systems, and responsibilities that connect in different ways. This architecture does not attempt to capture every detail. Instead, it offers a simplified and logical set of layers that help people understand the main components and how they relate to one another. The layers represent distinct functions, from the channels people use, through shared capabilities, and down to platforms, data, and infrastructure. Although the real topology is far more intricate, arranging these elements in a layered model makes it easier to see how they work together to deliver secure, consistent, and accessible services. This document brings together operational services and planned innovations within a single framework. It helps teams navigate the broader government landscape, understand where their work fits, identify opportunities for reuse, and design services that align with common patterns across departments. By presenting the environment in a structured and comprehensible way, the architecture supports better design decisions and helps move government towards more coherent and joined up digital experiences.
Who this is for
This view is designed for:
- Service Designers planning future digital services.
- Developers & Architects integrating with public sector APIs.
- Private Sector Partners collaborating on digital solutions.
- Citizens who want to understand how services connect.
How to use it
Use this architecture as:
- A reference model for designing citizen-facing services.
- A guide for aligning new initiatives with common government digital standards and shared capabilities.
- A tool for identifying integration points with APIs and data layers.
- A roadmap for understanding what’s operational today and what’s planned.
Citizen-facing reference architecture
Get in touch
For questions, feedback, or collaboration opportunities, please contact us at: