Semantic standardization of data spaces: effective interoperability
October 02, 2023
DESCRIPCIÓN
The IDS-RAM reference architecture model used by BAIDATA facilitates cross-sector data exchange and data sovereignty.
On February 23, 2022, the European Commission agreed on the proposal for a Regulation on harmonized rules for fair access and use of data, also known as the Data Act. This is a key initiative for the European data strategy and the intended digital transformation of the EU. This Data Act foresees the development of a general interoperability framework for data reuse across businesses and sectors, in an attempt to remove barriers to data sharing.
One of the key elements of this general interoperability framework is semantic standardization. Semantic standardization is the process of ensuring mutual understanding and clarity of meaning of data so that it can be shared with and understood by external stakeholders. Although data spaces know no borders, people speak different languages, so having a universal semantic framework for the use of these data spaces is essential for proper data governance and, therefore, for business innovation.
In the context of data spaces semantic interoperability involves two crucial aspects to be considered:
- Metadata Semantics
One of the essential components to enable the (semi)automatic exchange of digital resources in a trusted ecosystem of distributed parties is the semantics of metadata. This layer of semantics focuses on the description and understanding of the data, including details about its origin, format and structure.
To address this casuistry, IDSA has developed a domain- and vertical-agnostic common information model. This model provides a unified framework for the description, publication and identification of data products and reusable data processing software. Apart from these data products and services, the Information Model describes the essential components of International Data Spaces, their participants, their infrastructure components and their processes.
- Semantic Data Interoperability
The second key aspect concerns the semantic interoperability of the data itself. This goes beyond the description of metadata and focuses on ensuring that the data is correctly understood and can be used effectively in different contexts and applications.
In this regard, the IDS Reference Architecture Model (IDS-RAM) provides for a Vocabulary Provider. This role is fundamental, as it is responsible for maintaining the semantic structure of domain vocabularies in a specific data space. In doing so, it ensures that the data shared within that space is understandable and consistent, even when it comes from different sources and is used in different applications.
As we continue to move forward in the digital age, semantic interoperability in data spaces will become a key pillar in building a connected, data-driven future. Collaboration between organizations and the adoption of standards such as the Information Model and the tools envisioned in the IDS Reference Architecture Model pave the way to this future, where information flows seamlessly, is shared securely, and is used to improve the lives of people and the operations of organizations around the world.
At BAIDATA we continue to work in partnership with IDSA to develop a public-private data ecosystem where fostering connectivity and interoperability of data spaces is a key factor. If your company can contribute to the creation of this ecosystem or you want to incorporate the data economy into your business model, join BAIDATA and be an active part of this digital transformation that is revolutionizing traditional business models. We are waiting for you!