Frequently Asked Questions
Below we show the most frequently asked questions by users, which can be consulted in more detail at the following link:
About the data space
What is the DATAlife Data Space?
It is a secure environment where organizations can share, access, and use data or services while always maintaining control over them.
What does it mean to “join” the data space?
It means becoming part of the ecosystem to: • Share data • Consume data • Offer or use services Always under rules of security, privacy, and control.
Do I lose ownership of my data by participating?
No. You decide: • What data to share • With whom • Under what conditions There is never mandatory data transfer.
Who can participate?
• Hospitals and healthcare centers • Universities and research centers • Public administrations • Companies, startups, and technology centers.
Roles and participation
What roles exist within the data space?
You can participate as: • Data provider • Data consumer • Service provider • Service consumer The same entity can have multiple roles at the same time.
What is the most common role to start with?
The most common is Data Provider, sharing a dataset for validation or use by other participants.
Joining process
How do I join the data space?
The process has two phases: • Administrative request: complete the interest form and validation by CESGA. • Technical integration: deploy the connector and publish data or services.
How long does the process take?
Request evaluation: up to 2 weeks. Technical integration: depends on the user (hours or days).
Do I need to sign any agreement?
Yes, in some cases a joining contract is formalized before technical integration.
Technical part (connectors and data)
What is a connector?
It is a tool that allows you to connect your systems with the data space. Important: • It does not store data • It only manages access and exchange.
Do I need my own infrastructure?
Yes. You need: • Server (local or cloud) • Minimum resources (RAM, CPU) • Internet connection.
Where is my data stored?
On your own infrastructure or external services (e.g., cloud). The connector only points to them via a URL.
What is an asset?
It is a package of data or service that you share in the data space. Includes: • Data • Metadata • License • Documentation.
Security and governance
How is access to data controlled?
Through: • Usage contracts • Policies defined by the provider You decide who can access and how.
What regulations must I comply with?
• Data protection (GDPR) • Security • Ethics and governance of the space.
Is there supervision or auditing?
Yes. The system may include: • Quality verification • Audits • Compliance monitoring.
Usage and operation
How do I access data from other participants?
Through the data space catalog, where you can: • Search datasets • Request access • Accept conditions.
What benefits do I get by participating?
• Access to data and services • Collaboration with other entities • Visibility of your data • Integration with European ecosystems.
Common issues
I don't see data in the catalog, what's happening?
It may be due to: • Connection issues • Incorrect connector configuration.
What happens if my dataset does not meet requirements?
It will not be validated. It must meet: • Quality • Documentation • Consistency with what is declared.
Can I modify or remove my data?
Yes. You maintain full control at all times.
Getting started recommendations
How do I start if I am a beginner?
• Define a simple use case • Prepare a small dataset • Deploy the connector • Publish a first asset • Validate with CESGA.
What should be avoided?
• Not documenting the data • Using inaccessible URLs • Reconfiguring the connector without control • Not defining usage conditions.