New Digital Specimen Reference (openDS) & Ongoing Standards Work:
DTP developed the peer-reviewed Open Digital Specimen (openDS) data model, a "digital twin" adding annotations, PIDs, provenance, and machine-actionable semantics. This model will revolutionize specimen referencing in scientific papers using DOIs, creating a new standard for FAIR digital specimens with high scientific potential. Continuous development, harmonization, and adoption of openDS, Latimer Core, MIDS, and Taxon Concept Schema (TCS) are crucial.
Foundational Digital System (MVP) & Full Operationalisation/Technical Debt Management:
The project established a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6 Minimum Viable Product (MVP) for its central digital infrastructure, including a Digital Specimen Repository and Persistent Identifier Infrastructure. This MVP acts as a unified data source, supporting AI-driven analysis and annotation. Full operationalisation is targeted for 2026 with the ERIC's start, with data ingestion in 2025 and initial user testing of annotation services. Preventing technical debt is an ongoing priority through consistent coding standards, integration planning, and automated code reviews.
Smart Automated Data Analysis (Machine Annotation Services - MAS):
DTP created and improved Machine Annotation Services (MAS) for automatically extracting and analysing quantitative biodiversity data. This includes OntoGPT MAS (using large language models) and prototypes like Taxamorph MAS and Plant Trait Detection MAS, enabling advanced research and building large historical datasets for forecasting systems.
Improved Data Sharing Rules (Latimer Core and MIDS):
Latimer Core became a formally approved TDWG standard with practical examples. MIDS was significantly enhanced with a documentation website and automatic digitisation score calculation. Both were integrated into DiSSCo Core Infrastructure and DiSSCover, establishing consistent, computer-readable data practices for seamless interoperability.
Framework for Measuring Broader Impact & Ensuring Long-term Financial Stability:
By integrating social sciences and humanities, DTP developed a method to systematically measure and communicate the project's societal and economic contributions. This framework is crucial for ensuring long-term financial stability and aligning with national and EU objectives.
Key Next Steps:
The Step 1 ERIC legal entity application was submitted in February 2025, with Step 2 preparation ongoing. Policy documents require further discussion and finalization by the DiSSCo Interim Council. The ELViS demonstrator (TRL 7) needs user needs validation and refinement. The maDMP demonstrator (TRL 8) requires further testing and feature additions. Continued support for national partners, including data collection for the Specialisation Tool, and developing DiSSCo Helpdesk self-service resources (potentially with AI) are important.
