Project Context / Objective:
The University of Zürich engaged Takin.Solutions to develop a comprehensive semantic data model and X3ML mapping pipeline for the Monte Iato archaeological excavation dataset, managed in easydb. The goal was to integrate excavation data into a standards-aligned semantic framework, enabling long-term interoperability, scholarly reuse, and compatibility with the wider Linked Open Data ecosystem.
The project required transforming a richly structured archaeological dataset into semantic representations fully compatible with the SARI Standard Reference Data Model (SRDM) 2.0, covering the full range of entities present in the Monte Iato research environment.
Takin.Solutions’ Role / Contributions:
Takin.Solutions acted as semantic modelling consultant and technical mapping specialist, delivering a complete set of SRDM-aligned modelling patterns and a production-ready X3ML mapping pipeline for the client’s easydb dataset.
Key Activities:
- Analysed the Monte Iato easydb dataset structure and defined the full scope of semantic entities requiring modelling.
- Developed annotation-compatible semantic models aligned with SARI SRDM 2.0 for seven entity types.
- Designed and implemented X3ML mappings using the X3ML engine, based on a comprehensive data sample in 3M-readable XML format.
- Produced full technical documentation of all modelling patterns as an implementation blueprint.
- Coordinated iterative review and approval of draft documents with the client’s team via collaborative tools.
- Documented finalized outputs using Zellij, Takin’s semantic data management platform.
Deliverables / Outputs:
- Complete set of SRDM 2.0-compatible semantic modelling patterns covering:
- Archaeological Excavation
- Artefact
- Digital Object
- Place
- Inscription
- Bibliographic Item
- Group
- Production-ready X3ML mapping files for the Monte Iato easydb dataset.
- Full technical documentation suitable for implementation and future extension.
Outcome / Impact:
The project established a rigorous semantic foundation for the Monte Iato excavation data, enabling the client to move from a proprietary database environment toward a standards-aligned, interoperable semantic infrastructure. By aligning all entity types with SARI SRDM 2.0 and CIDOC CRM, the resulting models and mappings ensure long-term scholarly accessibility, data reuse, and compatibility with international cultural heritage data ecosystems.
