Participation in a Data Space requires adherence to certain rules and procedures that are binding on all members. The first stage is for potential candidates to provide a Data Space Self-Description (DSSD) to the Data Space. This can be done in a variety of ways, such as through personal interaction, through the Data Space’s website, or by finding the Data Space’s registration number in a directory.
After analyzing the DSSD, the candidate obtains information about the rules and policies that govern the Data Space, as well as technical details about endpoints and protocols. The candidate then evaluates the Data Space rules and policies and prepares all necessary information to meet membership requirements.
Once all information is gathered and the required evidence is provided, the candidate applies for membership through the Data Space registration function. The exact technical implementation of registration may vary by Data Space.
The Data Space Authority (DSA) then verifies that the candidate meets the guidelines for joining the Data Space. This not only verifies technical capabilities, but may also require workflows that involve human interaction, such as signing a membership agreement.
Once all membership guidelines are sufficiently met, the DSA issues proof of membership in the form of a Verifiable Credential (VC) and sends it to the candidate. This makes the candidate a participant and allows them to set up all necessary technical components to participate in the Data Space.
Once the application process is complete, the participant can interact with other members of the Data Space. This includes browsing the catalog for data from other participants, adding their own data with metadata and policies, and negotiating data contracts.
In this way, Data Space membership enables data sharing and collaboration in a secure and compliant environment.
