The DSSC Maturity Model is closely related to one of the elements described in the European Standardisation Request for Trusted Data Transactions (Mandate 614). The mandate requires a technical specification for the self-assessment of Common European Data Spaces and related data-sharing initiatives. A parallel framework evaluates the quality of the internal data-governance processes used by organizations participating in these ecosystems. Together, they outline how trusted and consistent data sharing should function across Europe.
A workshop that connected standardization and practice
The FAME project recently organized a workshop with two other EUDATA+ cluster projects, DATAMITE and PISTIS. The session focused on the work items under CEN/CENELEC JTC 25 related to maturity assessment and internal data governance. It also aimed to create awareness of the broader standardization work and identify where project experience could support it.
FAME shared its experience using the DSSC Maturity Model for a full self-assessment. As the discussion progressed, it became clear where interpretations matched and where additional clarification would help. Practitioners recognized that the model becomes easier to understand when tested against real project dynamics rather than abstract descriptions. The conversation also highlighted the link between ecosystem maturity and the internal processes used by participating organizations.
A community contribution that shapes the technical specification
The DSSC Maturity Model will serve as the basis for the upcoming Technical Specification on maturity assessment developed in CEN/CENELEC JTC 25 Working Group 2. IDSA contributes to this work within JTC 25 and supports the development of shared criteria for interoperability.
To make the model easier to apply, the FAME project has created an Excel tool that guides the self-assessment step by step. It is available for other projects and can be downloaded here: LINK. Trying the model with this tool is the most effective way to see where the questions are clear, where guidance is missing and where the structure supports real-world decision-making.
Your feedback for the next version of the DSSC Maturity Model
We are collecting feedback on the model and on the experience of using it. The survey below allows you to share insights that will inform both the next version of the DSSC Maturity Model and the work of JTC 25:
https://forms.office.com/e/N7N4v0jLHq
Your contribution helps refine the model and supports the standardization work that defines how mature and interoperable data spaces should operate.
“The FAME project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2023 Research and Innovation Programme under grant agreement nª 101092639.”
