Project Brief

CivTech Challenge 9.9 focused on developing a system that could improve the licencing process for tobacco retailers. Unfortunately, the existing tobacco register has reached its end of life – it’s outdated and contains incomplete, inaccurate, and inconsistent data, leading to inefficiencies in enforcement and a lack of support services for retailers.

Our product, ePass, enhances data entry accuracy by matching it with existing databases such as Companies House (amongst others) which in turn streamlines the application process and saves businesses time and money. The system can also automatically grant a licence for correctly completed and accurate applications, therefore reducing wait times and only requiring manual intervention for more complex cases. This in turn improves resource allocation and enhances support for prospective and current licence holders, making it easier for the Scottish Government to monitor and enforce compliance.

ePass prioritises accessibility, scalability, security, and training, with the adaptability to extend to other licencing services, not just in Scotland but globally. Although the original CivTech Challenge included the sale of fireworks, this requirement was later removed due to legislative changes, reinforcing the need for a flexible system that admins can update in real-time.

Key Project Highlights

• No-code configuration: The admin portal makes it simple to set up and modify any licence application process flow.

• Auto-approval logic: Set licences for weighted scoring or auto-approval, reducing admin work and manual verifications.

• Fraud prevention: ePass enables the creation of fraud-proof digital licences using the latest security techniques.

• eLearning: Training modules can be included as a mandatory or optional part of the application or post-application process. 

• Payment processing: Accept payments from applicants and set up recurring payments for renewals from licence holders. 

Solution Summary & Future Development

ePass is the complete digital licencing solution: providing streamlined configuration, application, and enforcement for any licencing or registration requirement alongside elearning, payment processing, and detailed reporting. 

Although currently in its MVP phase, ePass will undergo full development over the next 6 months and launch the new Tobacco and Vaping Register in late 2024. This instance of ePass will follow the Scottish Government’s brand guidelines, however, additional instances of ePass can be either white labelled to match the brand guidelines of a business or organisation, or feature ePass’ own brand colours. Over time, the platform will be expanded to include additional features as standard, however, each individual instance of ePass can also be customised further to suit the needs of the licencing body or organisation. 

Our teams have over 10 years of experience building digital products for public and private sectors and ePass marks a huge milestone for Zudu alongside reflecting our industry knowledge of the challenges businesses face. This is why ePass is designed to be simple and effective – putting users at the heart of our solution. Thank you to CivTech for giving us the opportunity to bring ePass to life. 

Find out more and book a demo by emailing contact@zudu.co.uk.