The Value Grid for Semantic Technologies

This paper situates formal ontologies as one of many products in a multi-tier value grid of semantic technologies. Incremental strategies for the exploitation of intermediate products in the value grid are discussed, as a possible step towards cost-effective, low-risk and scalable business models for the exploitation of semantic technologies. A case study is presented, illustrating a hypothetical value grid for the management of scientific data from a large-scale experimental facility. Suggestions are made for the design of predictable, repeatable collaborative processes for adding value in semantic technology value grids.