Ontologies.pptVIP

ONTOLOGIES Odile Artur, University of Marne-la-Vallée Nicholas Crofts, DAEL, Geneva Patrick Le B?uf, BnF, Paris What is an ontology? What general features can we draw from all of these definitions? A given field or domain of interest within the boundaries of which “things” are assumed to exist, to “be” and about which we wish to “talk” in a formalized, explicit, and semantically consistent way Using the CIDOC CRM ontology What is CIDOC CRM? a domain ontology based on an object oriented model composed of entities, organised into a hierarchy and related to each other through property links Version 3.2 = over 70 entities and nearly 100 property links Conceptual reference CRM = a basis for mutual comprehension between cultural heritage professionals and IT specialists Cultural heritage information = a complex and subtle world Misunderstandings in the design of information systems = $$$$$$$ = need for clear and unambiguous communication Data exchange and archiving CRM = also a technical reference for use in comparing and evaluating information systems, data schema, c. a basis for data transfer between incompatible systems XML doesnt do this on its own but CRM can be used for designing a common XML schema CRM = also a basis for archiving of data (cf. troubles with the 1986 Domesday Project…) Systems design CRM can be used as technical specification for the design of new information systems… … but is not intended to be implemented as is adaptation: plug-in points, guidelines for extension e.g.: Geneva City’s Musinfo project Mediation systems ALM information is rather isolated Impossible to gather data in a single huge system Mediation systems aim to federate information sources (= single interface for users, distributed query systems) CRM = potential basis for the mediation systems data schema In short, CRM can be used: As a methodological tool in IT projects to improve communication and help to avoid misunderstandings As a reference for good practice to compare a