Using sparql for 'validation'

Hi all,

Something that might be of relevance to recent discussion of semantics of SPARQL ...

As I understand it, RDF & OWL semantics are built on the open world assumption, which means that, beyond arriving at a logical inconsistency, it doesn't really make sense to 'validate' RDF or OWL data.

However, both publishers and consumers of RDF data may wish to perform 'quality' or 'integrity' checks on their RDF data, before it is published or as it is consumed, to ensure that certain standards are being adhered to, or certain potentially problematic patterns are found. 

A little while ago I wrote up an idea to use SPARQL queries to generate test reports for RDF graphs, an idea that is analagous to the use of schematron for XML instances, and did a test implementation [1].  Based on this work, I've written up some 'test cases' specifically relating to the use of SKOS Core [2]. I'd be interested in any feedback or comments regarding this work.

Cheers,

Alistair.

[1] http://isegserv.itd.rl.ac.uk/schemarama/
[2] http://isegserv.itd.rl.ac.uk/cvs-public/~checkout~/skos/drafts/integrity.html

---
Alistair Miles
Research Associate
CCLRC - Rutherford Appleton Laboratory
Building R1 Room 1.60
Fermi Avenue
Chilton
Didcot
Oxfordshire OX11 0QX
United Kingdom
Email:        a.j.miles@rl.ac.uk
Tel: +44 (0)1235 445440

Received on Monday, 12 December 2005 14:30:27 UTC