JISC

Summary

The “linked data” approach is, simply put, a way of presenting data that makes it easy to re-use. It is considered by many to be a pragmatic expression of the decade-old concept of a semantic web. Linked data is often intimately related to the idea of Open Data, however, the semantic technologies that support linked data are of equal use in a more closed context, and this project will consider both cases. There is significant pressure within the public sector to publish data, and there has been an associated understanding that “linked data” is a sensible approach to this publication, both at UK and European levels.

We liken this project to determining the business case for linked data. A business case sets out the rationale for a specific course of action by assessing a strategic fit, the optimum combination of benefits/costs/risks, affordability, and achievability. This approach will help the JISC decide on investment priorities, and once translated into guidance will help HEIs implement projects effectively. The scope is broad: linked data to support research, teaching, learning, management and administration, in both “open” and “closed” approaches. 

Objectives

This project will use evidence from JISC projects and elsewhere to answer the following questions as far as possible:

1. What are the costs, benefits, risks and opportunities for HEIs and for the HE sector as a whole in using a “linked data” approach to share data?
2. What are the main common conditions under which linked data can be used in earnest and with demonstrable benefits for HE purposes?
3. What are the main barriers in HE to creating linked data that fulfils the conditions identified in (ii)?
4. What are the main functions that a linked data infrastructure will need to fulfil if it is to benefit HE?

Anticipated Outputs and Outcomes

The project will produce a database of evidence that will be used to synthesise answers to the questions listed in the project objectives. The following outputs will be produced:

• A summary of the synthesis in the form of notes on the questions to be answered, appropriate for use by a professional writer to develop further into advice and guidance for HEI managers.
• A report and accompanying slide deck that will include up to ten recommendations for the JISC, backed up by estimates of the likely timescale, benefits, costs and risks.

Contacts