This training module consists of both theoretical background and practical information on the use of the FI-Platform.
The FI-Platform is intended for use by both the public sector and the private sector across borders. It is based on an interoperability method, which aims to create and maintain semantic interoperability of data. Semantic interoperability means that data is maintained in a way where its meaning remains the same in diverse data flows.
The Finnish interoperability project, a national application and implementation of the European Interoperability Framework (EIF), developed and released both the Interoperability Method and the technical Interoperability Platform (FI-Platform). The objectives of the FI-Platform and the interoperability method are further explained in chapter 3. The FI-Platform and its Design Principles in General.
Funded by the Nordic Council of Ministers, the project named "Achieving the World's Smoothest Cross-Border Mobility and Daily Life Through Digitalisation" (2021-2023) aims to improve and increase the effectiveness of cross-border data exchange within the Nordic and Baltic countries. As part of the project, in cooperation with the European Commission and SEMIC, English training materials of interoperability and use of the Finnish Interoperability platform were created. Addditionally, the FI-Platform is a case example already implementing the Interoperable Europe Act. The FI-Platform provides tools for defining interoperable data content
Presentation video of the FI-Platform: Interoperability platform – data creates the greatest value when it is shared - YouTube
Why interoperability?
- To enable Once-Only Principle (OOP), which is part of public sector digitalisation. It means that citizens and businesses provide their data only once. Once-Only | TOOP.EU
- Semantic interoperability is a vital part of the digital economy, therefore it is essential that it's role has taken into consideration. Microsoft Word - 418-1555-1-DR.docx (aalto.fi)
- By improving semantic interoperability it is possible to standardize metadata management that is performed by multiple organizations in the same domain. Microsoft Word - 418-1555-1-DR.docx (aalto.fi)
Interoperability is often divided into four areas: legal, organizational, semantic, and technical (cf. the European Interoperability Framework EIF). The focus in the interoperability platform is on semantic interoperability. Semantic interoperability is typically defined as interoperability that enables the transfer and processing of data in way that keeps the meaning unchanged and the content comprehensible to all parties. Information has a precise meaning that remains unchanged and understandable to everyone when data is exchanged. Where one area of interoperability starts and another ends is not always easy to say. For example, code sets and classifications frequently also implement technical interoperability. See more information on the EIF here: The European Interoperability Framework in detail | Joinup (europa.eu)
Legal interoperability is about ensuring that organizations operating under different legal frameworks, policies and strategies can work together.
Technical interoperability factors cover the applications and infrastructures linking systems and service.
Organizational interoperability refers to the way in which public administrations align their business processes and responsibilities to achieve commonly agreed and mutually beneficial goals.
Semantic interoperability ensures that the precise format and meaning of exchanged data and information is preserved and understood throughout exchanges between parties.
Inquiries related to the FI-Platform: yhteentoimivuus@dvv.fi