Semantic and Technically Interoperable Data Exchange in the Flanders Smart Data Space

Abstract

The Flanders Smart Data Space (VSDS in Dutch) is a pioneering initiative in the realm of data management, aiming to establish a comprehensive and interoperable data infrastructure in the region of Flanders (Belgium). With data being scattered across different sources using their own custom APIs and semantics, it is tedious for users to access and integrate the data. Data consumers are left depending on inefficient data integration processes, requiring custom code with low re-usability. VSDS aims to solve this problem by offering a uniform approach and a collection of reusable building blocks built upon Semantic Web technologies that aim to facilitate seamless data sharing and integration. This paper discusses the core concepts of VSDS, highlighting its role in breaking down data silos, towards a more collaborative and interoperable ecosystem. By reporting on the creation of the traffic measurements data space, a real and domain-driven application of the VSDS concepts, we illustrate how accessibility and interoperability can be enhanced, and the time needed for data integration can be lowered, enabling data consumers to shift their focus from the complexities of data integration to solving domain problems using this data. Future work will focus on expanding the scope of the Flanders Smart Data Space to include additional domains, further enhancing data interoperability and collaboration across different sectors. Furthermore, the Flanders Smart Data Space will continue to align with the existing international Data Space initiatives.The Flanders Smart Data Space (VSDS in Dutch) is a pioneering initiative in the realm of data management, aiming to establish a comprehensive and interoperable data infrastructure in the region of Flanders (Belgium). With data being scattered across different sources using their own custom APIs and semantics, it is tedious for users to access and integrate the data. Data consumers are left depending on inefficient data integration processes, requiring custom code with low re-usability. VSDS aims to solve this problem by offering a uniform approach and a collection of reusable building blocks built upon Semantic Web technologies that aim to facilitate seamless data sharing and integration. This paper discusses the core concepts of VSDS, highlighting its role in breaking down data silos, towards a more collaborative and interoperable ecosystem. By reporting on the creation of the traffic measurements data space, a real and domain-driven application of the VSDS concepts, we illustrate how accessibility and interoperability can be enhanced, and the time needed for data integration can be lowered, enabling data consumers to shift their focus from the complexities of data integration to solving domain problems using this data. Future work will focus on expanding the scope of the Flanders Smart Data Space to include additional domains, further enhancing data interoperability and collaboration across different sectors. Furthermore, the Flanders Smart Data Space will continue to align with the existing international Data Space initiatives.