Protyping the Semantic Interoperability Logical Framework - SILF

The need for information exchange between heterogeneous systems is increasing due to the numerous coordinated efforts, collaborations and interdependencies amongst different organizations. Information systems owned and designed by different organizations differ in representations, syntax, semantics, language and concepts. In order to conduct successful coalition operations, the meaning of the information must be preserved as the information is exchanged between systems. In other words, semantic interoperability must exist between the systems. In order to ensure semantic interoperability between heterogeneous systems, an architecture with a corresponding life-cycle process is needed. The NATO group IST-075, where FOI is represented, has conceived such an architecture in SILF, the Semantic Interoperability Logical Framework. SILF is intended to provide a generic approach to semantic interoperability by applying means of knowledge-based systems, using ontologies, for mediation purposes. As a life-cycle process for SILF, FOI has suggested SIDEP, the Semantic Interoperability Development and Execution Process. This report focuses on two topics that have been the main concerns of the FOI Semantic Interoperability project during 2011. The first is the further develop-ment of SIDEP and the second is the technical realisation of a prototype of SILF and its application in a case study. The case study is based on a maritime situational awareness scenario and illustrates potential benefits and problems yet to be solved when using SILF and SIDEP to bridge the gap between semantically heterogeneous information systems. The report concludes by discussing lessons learned from the case study, some open questions and future work. In addition, some recommendations for the Swedish Armed Forces are given as well as some thoughts on success factors for SILF.