An introduction to the Semantic Web: definition and challenges

by our Digital Agency Optimize 360

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Le Semantic Webalso known as Web 3.0, is an evolving system that aims to improve the way machines and humans interact with the content available on the Internet.

In this article, we explore the definition and main characteristics of the Semantic Web, from its origins to its current applications.

What is the Semantic Web?

The Semantic Web is a project initiated by Tim Berners-Lee, the founder of the World Wide Web (WWW), which aims to transform the Web into a vast global library where information is organised in a more structured and precise way to make it easier to search, share and re-use data between different applications and platforms.

Its main objective is to provide meaning to data available on the Internet to promote better understanding and optimum use of these by machines and human beings.

Why develop a semantic Web?

Until now, users have mainly accessed and used information via search engines, which use keywords inserted in web pages to determine the order in which search results are displayed.

However, this approach has certain limitations, particularly with regard to the ambiguity and relevance of the data.

To overcome these problems, the Semantic Web aims to develop a new ecosystem where information is labelled, classified and interpreted in a more intelligent way to improve the quality and accuracy of the results obtained.

What's more, it gives users easy access to a variety of sources of information and a better understanding of their business. user experience thanks to seamless integration of services and applications.

The main components of the Semantic Web

Uniform Resource Identifiers (URI)

URIs are unique identifiers assigned to resources available on the Internet, such as web pages, documents, images or videos. They enable precise and relevant information to be accessed and retrieved according to the user's needs and preferences.

RDF (Resource Description Framework)

RDF is a standardised data model that facilitates the representation, storage and exchange of structured information between different applications and platforms. It allows relationships between objects to be described using triplets made up of a subject, a predicate and an object. This format is particularly well suited to expressing and sharing knowledge, especially in the context of the Semantic Web.

Taxonomy and ontologies

Taxonomy is a method of classifying concepts and terms hierarchically according to their nature and relationship. It enables information to be structured and logical links to be established between them, making it easier to search, navigate and interpret data.

Ontologies go even further by providing an explicit framework for describing the properties, relationships and semantic constraints of resources, making them easier to reuse and integrate in different contexts.

SPARQL (SPARQL Protocol and RDF Query Language)

SPARQL is a query language specific to RDF data that enables information to be retrieved and manipulated from semantic databases, known as RDF graphs. It provides a simple and flexible syntax for querying, filtering and transforming data according to the user's needs and preferences.

Semantic Web applications

The technological and scientific advances made in the field of the Semantic Web open the way to many innovative and useful applications for the community, in particular :

• Knowledge management: organising, classifying and sharing information to optimise access to and use of available resources.
• The creation of intelligent, personalised information systems: the introduction of services tailored to the profile, interests and behaviour of each user.
• The development of strategic intelligence and targeted marketing tools: precise identification of trends and the competition, as well as the distribution of personalised offers and promotions.
• Designing new e-learning formats: creating individualised, interactive educational pathways to promote the acquisition of specific skills and knowledge.
• Strengthening security and transparency on the Internet: data protection, respect for copyright and the fight against computer piracy.

The applications of Semantic Web promise a brighter future where machines and people work together to transform our daily lives and shape new prospects for generations to come.

A real technological challenge that will take the world into a new digital era!