A complete guide to Digital Product Passport software

Digital Product Passports are soon to be introduced across industries due to recent legislation from the EU. 

Meeting requirements will require a multifaceted approach to collecting and sharing data throughout the supply chain. However, this will not be possible without the right Digital Product Passport software.

In this article, we look at everything you need to know about DPP software and key features to look out for in a new platform. 

What are Digital Product Passports?

Digital Product Passports (DPPs) are digital records that hold essential information about a product's lifecycle. This includes everything from data on the impact of raw material extraction to manufacturing processes and end-of-life recycling guidelines. 

Because of legislation such as the Circular Economy Plan, the EU is implementing DPPs in a phased approach to better promote traceability, transparency, and sustainability across a wide variety of product categories over the coming years. 

DPPs will allow stakeholders at all levels of the supply chain to access key product data by scanning a simple QR code or reading an NFC tag.

This product data held within the DPP will then allow stakeholders at every level to verify sustainability credentials, ownership history, and end-of-life instructions. DPPs are set to become mandatory for a wide range of sectors between 2026 and 2030.

What is Digital Product Passport software? 

Digital Product Passport software is any technological solution or platform designed to create, manage, and host Digital Product Passports. 

A Digital Product Passport platform should be created from the ground up to comply with the regulatory requirements of DPPs as set out by the EU. That means it needs to ensure that all the required data can be collected and stored securely.

Digital Product Passport software achieves this by leveraging advanced technology such as Web3 and Blockchain to enable seamless collection, encryption, and accessibility. 

These technologies also ensure interoperability with current data systems of both the company investing in the solution, and systems used by stakeholders. This means all players in the supply chain can update information within the DPP correctly and easily, with minimal disruption to current business processes.

Software harnesses established technology such as QR codes or NFC chips to allow users to scan and access the information. Functionality such as tiered access rights ensures security and protection by making sure each stakeholder accesses the appropriate data for their needs.

A Digital Product Passport system also integrates functionality such as authentication. For instance, users can claim ownership of a product by authentifying their purchase. They would then access accurate and verified information about the product's lifecycle and ownership history.

These features allow Digital Product Passport software to provide a robust and secure platform for managing all product lifecycle data. This will support sustainability efforts, enhance customer trust, and most importantly, ensure compliance.

The benefits of a Digital Product Passport Solution 

An all-in-one Digital Product Passport solution like Authentify It combines cutting-edge software with sector expertise to seamlessly integrate with current systems and processes. You’ll also find consultative services included to help businesses stay compliant with complex new regulations.

The benefits of a Digital Product Passport solution include: 

• Regulatory compliance: The core benefit of a digital product passport software or solution is that it helps businesses comply with the new EU sustainability regulations. Reducing the risk of non-compliance means no penalties and enhanced market access.
• Implementation and audit help: Solutions like AuthentifyIt support businesses throughout the entire implementation process. This includes initial planning, data management, and the compliance audit process. DPPs will represent a big shift in business practices and Digital Product Passport solutions need to ensure minimal disruption.
• Simple data management: Good DPP software will allow for efficient data management across the whole supply chain. The solution will help businesses collect accurate environmental impact data, as well as monitor supplier practices to maintain transparency and promote ethical manufacturing.
• Enhanced data security: Harnessing technology like Blockchain will ensure the security and integrity of all product lifecycle data. Highly developed technology like Fireblock used by AuthentifyIt ensures that all data is immutable and fully tamper-proof. This ensures a reliable and trustworthy DPP.
• Improved supply chain management: By offering comprehensive data on a product's lifecycle, Digital Product Passport software will allow for far greater supply chain management. Manufacturers will be able to track all materials and components throughout the production process, helping ensure compliance and improving resource efficiency.
• Enhanced transparency and trust: Customers will feel much more engaged in the sustainability journey, allowing them to develop more affinity for a given brand or product. A good Digital Product Passport solution will allow them to access detailed information about the products they choose to purchase. 

Key features of a Digital Product Passport tool

Any Digital Product Passport software solution should include these key features:

Data interoperability

DPP software is built with interoperability in mind to ensure data from multiple streams can be integrated seamlessly. Different stakeholders have different software, so this interoperability is essential for maintaining accurate and consistent records across the full supply chain. 

This is a key reason why DPP software doesn’t leverage older web2 architecture. Instead, it relies on web3 and blockchain, making it ready for industry 4.0 sectors and further digitisation.

Data storage

Secure data storage is a critical feature of strong DPP software. Advanced encryption methods are necessary to protect sensitive information, ensuring only authorised stakeholders can access certain data. Secure storage also supports the long-term preservation of digital records, which is key for EU compliance and audit purposes.

Accessibility

Part of the EU’s requirements for DPPs is that they must provide easy access for both consumers and businesses. This accessibility is facilitated through technology like NFC tags, QR codes, and web-based portals so Digital Product Passport software needs to easily integrate with these methods of access. 

Blockchain and Web3 integration

As we’ve touched on, while not every Digital Product Passport tool relies on blockchain and Web3 technology, these platforms offer significant advantages over older architecture.

Blockchain platforms like Fireblock provide a completely decentralised and tamper-proof ledger for data management. This ensures full transparency and unparalleled security.

Meanwhile, Web3 technology enables seamless data exchange and smart contract functionalities, further improving the capability and interoperability of the DPP software.

These technologies ensure data security and protect sensitive information from unauthorised access. They also help to keep compliance with data privacy regulations such as GDPR.

Implementing Digital Product Passport software

Companies looking to implement DPP software effectively should focus on these areas to ensure a seamless transition:

1. Identify requirements. Set up an in-house DPP lead and collaborate with your DPP solution provider to identify the specific data and compliance requirements for your sector.
2. Choose the right solution. Select a Digital Product Passport software that meets the needs of your organisation. Ensure it can comply with EU and privacy regulations while offering all the features you require.
3. Data collection and integration. Work closely with suppliers and partners to collect accurate data from your entire supply chain. Use this information to compile an accurate DPP within the software of your choice.
4. Training and support. Offer training for your team and make sure they understand how to use the software effectively. Quality software providers should offer in-depth support and training materials around technical and compliance challenges.
5. Consumer engagement. Foster transparency and trust by ensuring consumers can access a user-friendly platform to easily understand the information held within the DPP.
6. Continuous improvement. Regularly update DPPs with new data and insights. Leverage advances in technology, and keep up to date with any changes in regulations to continuously promote sustainability and efficiency.

How to choose Digital Product Passport software

Consider the following factors when shopping for a DPP solution for your unique needs. You can also read our guide.
 

1. Compliance. Make sure the software is certified and fully compliant with EU regulations. It’s also a good idea to opt for solutions that come with comprehensive compliance support like expert consultancy, regular updates, and audit trails.
2. Functionality. Look for a comprehensive suite of features that allows for excellent data interoperability, secure storage, and easy accessibility.
   User-friendliness. Choose a platform that’s intuitive to use and integrates seamlessly with your established processes. Intuitive platforms will require minimal training and cause the least disruption.
3. Technology. Select a platform that leverages advanced technologies like blockchain and Web3. This will enhance data security and management while ensuring compatibility with existing Industry 4.0 systems like digital twins and IoT platforms.
4. Scalability. Choose a solution that is ready to scale with your business. Regulatory requirements change and you need a solution that is ready for this. It also needs to be flexible enough to not slow down the introduction of new products or expansion into new markets.
5. Data security. Prioritise solutions that have robust data security features built in from the ground up. This will protect sensitive product information and ensure compliance with privacy regulations.
6. Price. Look out for an affordable solution, but bear in mind that there will be a fixed cost because any solution will need to pay for servers and NFC chips. 

By choosing the right DPP solution for your needs early, you can ensure that the business remains competitive and experiences minimal disruption when DPPs become mandatory in your sector.

Authentify It is an all-in-one solution combining advanced technology with consultancy and support. We offer different packages to suit different needs. 

Get in touch to book a discovery call and see how AuthentifyIt can get your business ready for the future.