Integration protocol (2+2=5)

Data integration is the main purpose of the Data Commons. When data can be meaningfully integrated, its value increase can be non- linear. To do this requires being able to integrate diverse piece of data together to form new insights. Data integration needs points of joining.

At the most atomic level (for the management of the commons) there are probably several main integration protocols:

(a) who – joining data by personal identity,

(b) what – joining data by asset identity,

(c) where – joining data by geospatial location,

and (d) when – joining data by time stamp.

Developing standard approaches to this allows data to be integrated at low cost and effort. Rules about what kinds and purposes of integration are also needed. Integrating data to re-identify somebody who wishes to remain anonymous, for example, might not be sanctioned.