Data Model

A data model encodes an abstraction of the real world. It defines data elements and their structures, and also the relationships between them.

Your data, as all other data, is a partial description or view of the real phenomenon. When you combine your data with other data you might not get exactly the result that you are expecting.

To meet the challenges getting your datasets interoperable with other key datasets it is recommended to take the time to design your data models.

A key component to ensure data interoperability is the use of standards. Depending on if your
data are vector-based versus raster-based, different standards are to be used.

Vector-based data products:

• ISO 19109:2015 Geographic information – Rules for application schema
• ISO 19110:2005 Geographic information – Methodology for feature cataloguing

Raster-based data products:

• ISO 19123:2005 Geographic information – Schema for coverage geometry and functions

Data modeling also involves the development of data product specifications. More information on this can be found in this section of the guidelines

Data modeling

• Database vs. Spreadsheet
• Easy to understand Data Modeling Concepts
• The data modeling process
• Data Modeling – minimum for a developer

Example of Sientific Data Model

• A data model and ontology for semantic representation of scientific data