Reference Architecture

Let’s Get Real:  The IDS Reference Architecture Model  

Data is business’s most valuable asset – but it can only deliver on its full value when you put it into use and share it in ways that you determine and control. International data spaces (IDS) are where this kind of trustworthy, self-determined data sharing can happen, and our Reference Architecture Model (IDS-RAM) sets the standard for building them.

IDS-RAM 5 is in development

We are preparing a new edition of the IDS-RAM. Many key concepts and technical aspects of data spaces have advanced in recent months. These developments are not yet reflected in the current version, so the new edition will capture the latest results, including IDSA’s contributions to international standards and specifications.

The updated RAM will become the main reference for implementing the ideas defined in the IDSA Rulebook . It will translate governance models, data usage policies, and protocol specifications into clear logical components, defined interfaces, and consistent behavior patterns.

The new version aims to support interoperability, scalability, and conformance across different environments. Instead of prescribing a single approach, it will offer a structured design space that adapts to diverse needs while preserving the core IDSA data space model.

Join the IDS-RAM 5 work

We are developing the next version of the Reference Architecture Model together with our community.

If you are an IDSA member and want to contribute your expertise or feedback, we invite you to get involved. Please contact us to join the work.

Not a member yet? Join IDSA and help shape the technical foundations of future data spaces.

What is the IDS-RAM?

Role model

Role model: IDS-RAM serves as a practical blueprint, but also as an exemplar of the ethical and design principles that well ensure trustworthiness in data exchange and true data sovereignty in the data economy of the future.

Data sovereignty

Data sovereignty: in the open, federated data marketplace we envision, the IDS-RAM enables self-determination and control over data usage to remain in the hands of those who collect, store and provide it, rather than passing to large data exchange platforms and others, as is often the case today.

Information model

The IDS-RAM’s information model is open, agnostic with regard to technologies and domains. This approach enables data exchange within a trusted ecosystem while preserving data sovereignty. The information model enables the comprehensive description of data assets and interoperability required for this kind of exchange.

Usage policy enforcement

The IDS-RAM provides a framework for technically enforced agreements for data sharing in addition to existing, legally binding contracts. This serves to underwrite trust in the system.

Continuing to use IDS-RAM 4

The current version, RAM 4, is the stable and official reference model. It is widely used in projects and implementations and remains the main source of guidance for designing and operating data spaces today.

IDS-RAM 4.0 repository on GitHub

IDS-RAM 4 is archived and will not be further updated. It remains the baseline for existing implementations, certification, and training until the transition to RAM 5 is complete.

IDS-RAM 4.0 repository on GitHub

IDS-RAM 4.0 on GitBook