In this interview with Bernard Claes, Joinup’s EC Project Officer, we learn about the progress and highlights achieved until now for the platform.

Joinup introduced a new layout design and an additional method of organising content via Topics. How do users benefit from these?

We have been steadily working to improve how content is displayed on the Joinup platform. By introducing the topic-based approach, we offer users an additional way of accessing information in a simple manner. Topics cover main thematic areas such as Semantics, Observatories and Digital-ready policymaking. They provide curated content offered by the Joinup Communities. We encourage our Communities to take advantage of topics, and welcome their contributions. Topics are accessible on Joinup’s home page.

Joinup also features an improved layout which makes content stand out. The new page designs are mobile- and accessibility-friendly, and their clean outline helps users focus on the information they are looking at. The layout also includes a re-designed menu that provides users with a simplified navigation experience.

Given the importance of good and relevant content, what steps have been taken to improve and ensure good content quality?

Joinup has been a one-stop source of interoperability-related resources since 2011, which results in accumulating a large amount of content. We needed a balanced approach between preserving that old content – which offers context and historical information – and helping users find up-to-date information. To tackle this challenge, we have launched the archive feature, which hides outdated content, allowing Joinup Communities to promote their more relevant information. And, of course, archived content is still accessible to users with just one extra click.

Additionally, in response to users who wish to acknowledge good content, we have introduced the Like feature. By liking content, users can show their appreciation to content creators, motivating them to publish more interesting content. Also, by using this feature, you help other users find good content.

What changes have been introduced on Joinup to foster and promote collaboration on the platform?

Thanks to user feedback we were able to identify two main areas of improvement around collaboration activities. The first one concerns the ability of users to contact the owners of solutions with the “Contact us” online form.

The second area of improvement helps solution owners contact their members via the Announcements feature.

What will be Joinup’s role in the upcoming Interoperable Europe Act, and how will this affect the platform?

The upcoming Interoperable Europe Act advocates for a stronger EU public sector cooperation in the field of interoperability. Joinup – which will evolve to be the new “Interoperable Europe Portal” – will provide the solutions to support the proposed Act. On the policy side, the platform already promotes news and events on the future Act through the Interoperable Europe space. In addition, Joinup will also host the Interoperable Europe Support Centre which will offer help in the domains of semantics, legislation and IT architecture. The platform will also support the Act’s requirement for showcasing recommended solutions.