Constraining ontology mappings using metaphysical choices

In this paper we discuss the foundations behind a novel methodology for the validation of semantic mappings between different data sources based upon different foundation ontologies, where the methodology builds a framework based upon the metaphysical commitments of the ontologies. We provide as example the test case of mappings between IES and BFO, and we especially focused on providing cardinality constraints on the mappings between the two ontologies. In order to demonstrate the applicability of our method, we showcased how these principles can be operationalized through SPARQL queries validating the results of a mapping pipeline.

Extending the design space of ontologization practices: Using bCLEARer as an example

Our aim in this paper is to outline how the design space for the ontologization process is richer than current practice would suggest. We point out that engineering processes as well as products need to be designed - and identify some components of the design. We investigate the possibility of designing a range of radically new practices, providing examples of the new practices from our work over the last three decades with an outlier methodology, bCLEARer. We also suggest that setting an evolutionary context for ontologization helps one to better understand the nature of these new practices and provides the conceptual scaffolding that shapes fertile processes. Where this evolutionary perspective positions digitalization (the evolutionary emergence of computing technologies) as the latest step in a long evolutionary trail of information transitions. This reframes ontologization as a strategic tool for leveraging the emerging opportunities offered by digitalization.