Context
This is a continuation of the work under Action 2.3 and Action 2.4 that were initiated within the MIWP 2021-2024. The central INSPIRE components - the Geoportal, Validator, Registry, Knowledge Base (IKB) and their helpdesks and community fora - are essential for the implementation and evolution of the INSPIRE infrastructure. During the former MIWP, the JRC has considerably streamlined the operation and evolution of the components by revamping the Geoportal backend through the GeoNetwork open source software, redesigning the IKB, creating communities around the open source Re3gistry and ETF, moving all components to the cloud, migrating/integrating all helpdesks on GitHub. This has made it possible to decouple the INSPIRE components from the JRC infrastructure and create a sustainable path for the future operation.
In parallel, and following the Amendment of the Implementing Rules on the interoperability of spatial datasets and services, important work has been done to push for the simplification of INSPIRE implementation, by e.g. co-creating a good practice on the simplification of data-service linking (afterwards implemented in the Geoportal and Validator) and introducing a governance approach to manage the evolution of the INSPIRE artefacts - Technical Guidelines, XML application schemas, UML models and Registry content, which were also moved to GitHub for easier management.
Proposed action
First, the action will continue ensuring the operation and maintenance of the central components (including for the needs of the annual INSPIRE Monitoring and Reporting) and the provision of support to the community of implementers through the helpdesks. Evolution of the artefacts will also be ensured through the existing governance mechanism. Second, in preparation of the revision of the Directive, the action will evaluate appropriate ways to further streamline the underlying software and systems in view of the options to phase out, consolidate and/or move them to EC corporate solutions, to simplify long-term maintenance.
Organisational set-up
The action is led by the JRC, with contribution by the MIG-T, European Commission DGs and the EEA. Temporary sub-groups and networks of experts will be established, and where necessary, procurements for ad-hoc tasks will be prepared.
Tasks
| Task | Deadline (indicative) |
|---|---|
Task 1. Operate and evolve the central infrastructure components and provide community support through helpdesks | June 2026 |
| Task 2. Manage and evolve the INSPIRE artefacts, following the established governance process | June 2026 |
| Task 3. Perform the annual INSPIRE Monitoring and Reporting for 2024 and 2025 using the Geoportal and Validator | February 2026 |
Task 4. Prepare a sustainable pathway/exit strategy for the components in light of the INSPIRE revision | June 2026 |
Outcomes
Sustainable central INSPIRE components and artefacts that are reusable within the context of the European Green Deal data space.