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Spatial Data Federation

Definition

Spatial data federation links datasets across organizations and systems so that users can discover and query them as if they were one source, without centralizing all data. It relies on shared schemas, identifiers, and APIs, with governance for access and quality. Federation respects data ownership while enabling cross‑domain analyses.

Application

Disaster response pulls parcels, hazards, and shelters from city, county, and NGO systems. Environmental regulators join monitoring data across agencies. Transportation federates transit schedules and ridership from multiple operators into a unified traveler experience.

FAQ

What standards and patterns enable effective federation?

OGC API Features/Coverages for access, common identifiers like parcel IDs, and catalog standards (STAC, CSW) for discovery. Event buses propagate updates to subscribers.

How is federation different from a data warehouse?

A warehouse centralizes copies; federation leaves data with owners and queries them live or via cached views. Federation reduces duplication but needs strong SLAs and caching strategies.

How do you handle schema drift across partners?

Use semantic mappings and views that present a harmonized schema; version contracts and provide automated tests to catch breaking changes.

What governance keeps a federation trustworthy?

Data stewards, change logs, uptime monitoring, and clear escalation paths. Security models should support role‑based and attribute‑based access control.