Code of connection overview and latest updates

I’m very pleased to share that the updated draft code of connection, comprising security, service and operational standards for pensions dashboards, has been published on the Pensions Dashboards Programme (PDP) website. Here I’d like to go into some detail about what the code of connection is and who it applies to, what has been updated, and what we’re working on publishing next.

About the code of connection

The code of connection sets out how organisations such as pension providers and schemes and those connecting on their behalf are to connect and remain connected to the pensions dashboards ecosystem. It details the mandatory requirements that must be met, as well as the recommended ways in which participants should implement them.

This set of rules and controls provides assurance that the systems and services of all participants in the ecosystem are managed and controlled to the appropriate levels. It defines the standard of expected behaviour to protect all ecosystem participants as they access and use the central digital architecture and communicate with one another.

Three main areas are covered within the code of connection. The first comprises the technical and procedural standards required to ensure an appropriate level of security for the ecosystem. The second includes the minimum service requirements and necessary behaviour of participants. The third area involves the operational processes participants must follow to maintain their connection.

The code of connection applies to the trustees or managers of occupational pension schemes, the managers of stakeholder and personal pension schemes. Qualifying pensions dashboards services connecting to the ecosystem must also adhere to the code of connection.

Code of connection update

On 21 August, we published an updated draft version of the code of connection – version 1.1 – on the PDP website. Here you can also find a change log detailing the updates that have been made.

The newly published code of connection replaces the previous version – version 1.0 – that was published in November 2022. The new document reflects the feedback we received from our volunteer participants following engagement on the new draft document earlier this year.

Next standards updates

The code of connection forms part of the dashboards standards, the set of rules and controls that facilitate ongoing connection to the dashboards ecosystem. These comprise technical, data, design and reporting standards. We published an updated draft version of the data standards in May 2024.

We will very shortly be publishing an updated draft version of the technical standards, which define the way ecosystem participants communicate with the central digital architecture and with each other. Once published, we will share this update on our website, via email and on social media. The updated reporting and design standards will also be published once they have been tested and validated.

To see the updated code of connection and for more information on standards, please visit the standards page on the PDP website.