The experiment conducted by Sitowise involves creating a common concept model to promote the standardisation of the network sector.

What kind of problem is the project trying to solve?

The network sector includes various network operators and types (e.g. telecommunication, electricity, natural gas, water, district heating, cooling and traffic control networks). Network operators do not have shared methods of operation, and common concepts of cable location data do not exist in the sector. Each operator uses its own concepts that guide their processes and working methods. 

The sector needs a shared concept model for cable location data that the operators commit to using.

Objective: Promote the standardisation in the network sector

The experiment is about creating a shared concept model for cable location data for the network sector to promote the standardisation of the network sector. The concept model covers the concepts, relations between concepts and the most important attributes used in network infrastructure projects and processes.

The meanings of different terms will be defined to allow the same terminology to be used when referring to same things and to avoid referring to different things using the same terms. With a shared concept model, it will be possible to use the data created in various systems as a basis for other processes. This data sharing meets the development needs of electronic services.

Related needs have been identified in the following entities, for example:

- Promotion of collaborative construction;
- Facilitation of the cable permit process;
- Urban and infrastructure planning based on data models;
- Value-adding services (display services, availability enquiries, security of supply);
- Planning the 5G readiness of cities.

What is done in this project?

The experiment involves creating a shared concept model for cable location data in the network sector. The modelling data is collected by interviewing experts and affected parties. The interviews will be organised according to the types of network.

The comprehensive model will be verified in common workshops. The common concepts will be communicated both within the sector and to parties outside of the sector. The objective is to encourage all actors to commit to using the shared concept model.

What are the expected results of the experiment?

The experiment promotes standardisation in the network sector and, as a consequence, improves the exchange of information at all levels.

Who benefits?

The experiment benefits all organisations and people who use or produce cable location data.