IDSA Releases Updated Paper on Semantic Interoperability - A Key Reference for Building Interoperable Data Spaces

Semantic interoperability is at the heart of the DataTwin mission, and a new publication from the International Data Spaces Association (IDSA) offers valuable insights for everyone working toward interoperable and trusted data-sharing ecosystems.

IDSA has released an updated edition of its reference document on semantic interoperability in data spaces, providing a structured and practical overview of how organizations can ensure that shared data is interpreted consistently across systems, sectors, and domains.

The paper explains how common vocabularies, harmonized schemas, and shared governance rules prevent data spaces from becoming isolated information islands. It also highlights the role of the Dataspace Protocol (DSP) in enabling interoperability in practice — defining how data is described, discovered, exchanged, and used within data space infrastructures.

Of particular relevance to the DataTwin community, the updated edition includes:

• Concrete use cases demonstrating how semantic standards accelerate data discovery, automate contracts and policy enforcement, and support sector-specific data models.

• Clear guidance for newcomers, helping research teams, public authorities, and industry partners navigate the building blocks of interoperable data spaces.

• Insights into how semantic assets contribute to scalable, cross-sector European data spaces, aligning closely with DataTwin’s objectives.

As DataTwin works to advance data space interoperability and build capacity in Bulgaria and the region, this publication provides an essential reference for both technical and non-technical stakeholders engaged in our project activities.

We encourage partners, researchers, and practitioners to explore the new IDSA document and use it to strengthen semantic alignment across current and future data space initiatives.

The updated paper is available for download at the following link.