Sharing data across borders and systems is essential for modern public services, yet it often feels like solving a complex puzzle. Different formats, different terminologies, and countless manual processes create inefficiencies and errors. The updated SEMIC Core Vocabularies Handbook offers a practical solution: a clear, structured approach to semantic interoperability.
What are Core Vocabularies?
Core Vocabularies are standardised, reusable building blocks for describing common concepts like people, businesses, locations, public services, and events. Think of them as a universal dictionary for data. Instead of reinventing the wheel, organisations can use these shared vocabularies to ensure consistency and clarity across borders and systems.
Examples include:
- Core Person Vocabulary: Captures basic details like name, date of birth, and address.
- Core Business Vocabulary: Describes legal entities, their activities, and addresses.
- Core Location Vocabulary: Defines addresses and geographic names in a standard way.
Too see all the Core Vocabularies assets, click here
What is the Handbook used for?
The SEMIC Core Vocabularies Handbook is your go-to guide to make interoperability practical. It explains how to use Core Vocabularies effectively, whether you are creating new semantic data models for digital services or mapping existing systems to align with EU standards.
The Handbook includes step-by-step tutorials, methodological recommendations, and real-world use cases to help you implement interoperability without guesswork. The latest edition of the handbook goes beyond theory, it includes:
- Extended tutorials for hands-on implementation
- Support for modern formats like JSON-LD
- Guidance tailored for business users and technical experts
Who should read it?
- Administrative professionals and legal experts will learn how interoperability supports policy goals and simplifies cross-border cooperation.
- Technical experts and IT professionals will find step-by-step guidance for creating new semantic data models or mapping existing ones to Core Vocabularies.
Looking ahead
As Europe moves toward fully digital public services, Core Vocabularies remain the backbone of interoperability. They enable systems to “speak the same language,” paving the way for efficient, citizen-centric services.
Explore the full handbook and resources on the Core Vocabularies Handbook page.