One crucial implementation task for the Data Strategy is the development and standardization of operational Information Exchange Requirements (IER) and Data Sharing Requirements (DSR) between Nations or Data Spaces. This task involves creating a systematic process for defining, documenting, and managing the requirements for exchanging operational information across different Communities of Interest within the Alliance.
To accomplish this, the Information Architects would begin by conducting a comprehensive analysis of existing data exchange practices, protocols, and needs across various operational domains and functional areas within NATO. This analysis would help identify commonalities, gaps, and specific requirements for information exchange and data sharing.
The Information Architects will have to collaborate with stakeholders from different nations, operational domains, and data spaces to establish standardized templates, formats, and common tools for documenting IER/DSRs (i.e., the semantic Mediawiki platform used by the FMN initiative). These standardized templates would include clear definitions of data elements, and identification of communication protocols, security requirements, and any other relevant specifications necessary for effective information and data exchange. Additionally, the Information Architects would ensure alignment with existing data standards to promote seamless integration and compatibility across systems and platforms.
In addition, this task serves as a vital mechanism for identifying standardization gaps within NATO's data management landscape. By systematically documenting and analyzing the requirements for information exchange and data sharing in the Alliance Digital Interoperability Architecture, the Information Architects can pinpoint areas where standards are missing or where existing standards may be lacking or inadequate.
Once these standardization gaps are identified, the DMO can then prioritize them based on their impact on interoperability, data integrity, and mission-critical operations. These prioritized gaps can then be escalated to the NATO Digital Policy Committee (DPC) for further review and action. By proactively addressing standardization gaps identified through the process of defining IER/DSRs, NATO can ensure that its data management infrastructure remains robust, agile, and capable of supporting the Alliance's evolving operational needs. This iterative approach to standardization ensures that NATO maintains its competitive edge in an increasingly complex and data-driven security environment.