Paving the way for data spaces: Standardization in the digital era

One common definition of a standard is "used as normal." Many standards are so ingrained in our daily lives that we only notice them when they are absent. Without standards, products would not work as expected, and their quality would be inconsistent. Imagine your smartphone being unable to charge because it doesn't fit the electrical outlet. Standards establish rules, guidelines, or definitions—and they are essential for data spaces. That's why IDSA is deeply involved in standardizing data-sharing concepts.

Let's look at the significant work being done on ISO/IEC 20151 data space concepts and characteristics within the JTC 1/SC 38 committee on cloud computing and distributed platforms.

What is JTC 1/SC 38

Established in 2009, the JTC 1/SC 38 committee initially focused on distributed application, including service-oriented architectures and web services. Over time, its focus expanded to cloud computing and distributed platforms. This evolution reflects the growing complexity of data that needs to be managed and processed, where cloud concepts provide the necessary scalability. SC38’s scope encompasses standardization in cloud computing, distributed platforms, foundational concepts, technologies, operational issues, and system integration.

Data spaces seamlessly integrate into this decentralized and distributed system. Our goal at IDSA is to create an ISO/IEC standard for data spaces to facilitate international data sharing, reduce trade barriers, and cultivate data supply chains like physical supply chains.

The dual approach

IDSA’s work on data spaces involves both conceptual and technical standards. Conceptual standards, like ISO/IEC 20151, define what a data space is, what are their essential components and optional characteristics. Some technical standards require precise technical specifications, particularly interoperability standards like the Dataspace Protocol, because it ensures that data space participants can share data seamlessly. Our efforts in the Eclipse Dataspace Working Group focus on supporting the development of core protocol specifications, industry-grade software, and management tools for data spaces.

We build upon existing standards, such as those for organizational autonomy and digital sovereignty (ISO/IEC 10866), cloud systems (ISO/IEC5140), IoT (ISO/IEC30141-23188-21823, and Edge (ISO/IEC 23188) interoperability (ISO/IEC19941). These standards provide a robust foundation for our work, ensuring that we stand on the shoulders of giants as we develop new frameworks for data spaces.

Moving forward

Data spaces form the strategic infrastructure for our industries' data-driven value chains. In the future, business innovations, compliance, and process excellence will depend on trusted, scalable, and interoperable data spaces.

Following the specifications and guidelines that are defined in IDSA’s assets, you can enhance interoperability and efficiency in your projects and standardize your data space technology. We welcome any collaboration or discussion to further these efforts. If you are not yet involved in developing technology and practices for data sharing, now is the perfect time to start. Your support is crucial to those paving the way in this field, including our team. Let's continue pushing the boundaries of data sharing and innovation.