International data spaces
Numerous initiatives surrounding data spaces are being kicked-off in the EU. To avoid the parallel development of multiple data spaces on similar topics, we should present the development in a structured way. EuProGigant has created the first overview of data spaces, including their geographical area, goal and functionality – with a focus on data spaces in German-speaking regions. In the future, EuProGigant will tie into the existing data spaces. Beyond Europe, the International Data Spaces Association operates as an idea generator on this topic and is collaborating closely with Gaia-X; the international data spaces (IDS) standard for open, transparent and autonomous data exchange is a central element of the Gaia-X architecture.
Still, what is a data space exactly? You can find out here. An overview of data spaces can be found below.
Definitions
What is a data space?
A data space is an instance in which data is shared. Data spaces created in the Gaia-X context mostly contain data from different owners. Data is made available there for the purpose of shared access.
The data space is providing data access only to parties authorised by the data owner. Analogies to the lock-and-key principle are implemented to ensure that the data owner retains sovereignty over his data, despite the fact that it is made available in the data space. Another possibility is that data is only made available via the data space, but is physically stored on servers of the respective owner.
Behind each data space is a loose association of partner companies that have the same interests or are active in the same industry (e.g. automotive, plastics, materials science) and already work together there. The purpose of a data space for a certain industry is to exchange data via interfaces of a common infrastructure and to organise the data in an ecosystem. Interfaces between different dataspaces are also envisaged.
What is the difference between a data space and a platform or cloud?
A platform is a general instance on which applications, services or data can be provided. The cloud refers to a group of computers that can run programs and store data.
A data room can be a platform. Data rooms and platforms can be located in the cloud as a service.
Overview of data spaces in the EU
