On 2nd February, experts in data modelling from 19 European countries came together and exchanged experiences and visions during an intensive workshop in Brussels.

Some 60 participants discussed the practical organisation and theoretical foundations of effective modelling of data for information exchange.
Organised by SEMIC.EU the event entitled "Modelling eGovernment Entities - Methodologies and Experiences under Review" examined the full range of different approaches taken in European countries and regions.

Conference documentation is now available. Expert profiles, background documents and information relevant to the community are published on SEMIC.EU

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Please find all relevant information in the Community section.

The methodology community will continue to discuss best ways in defining the needed ontologies, XML schemas or other models for a given purpose.

Which code lists are to choose?

Where does the UN/CEFACT methodology help best?

Is a global eGovernment ontology possible in the first place?

With this initial gathering, the community of practice has also embraced the value of theoretical backing and scientific analysis. A common understanding of technical terms, a growing awareness of the pitfalls of semantic modelling, as well as the familiarity with the strengths of different modelling languages and techniques will help to assess the alternatives.

SEMIC.EU will continue to organise workshops like this one and to facilitate collaboration among European eGovernment practitioners.