Bridging Knowledge, Data, and AI

The semantic layer framework is the practical combination of core technologies and best-in-practice design principles that deliver a framework connecting all of an organization's knowledge assets in context and with the greatest accuracy. It combines elements from data, information, and knowledge management in order to enable the reliable (re)use of an organization’s assets. 

This book guides the reader through every element of the semantic layer, from its core definition and business value, associated components and design requirements, methodological keys to success, realworld success stories and applications, and finally, through its relationship with AI. The book is divided into five parts. “Chapter I: Understanding the Semantic Layer” defines the semantic layer, explains its value, and details business outcomes and potential areas of return on investment. “Chapter II: Semantic Layer Component Design and Implementation” breaks the semantic layer down into its core components (knowledge assets, business glossary, metadata, taxonomy, and knowledge graph) defining each, explaining their role in the semantic layer, discussing associated technologies, and delving into the modeling of these components. “Chapter III: Methodologies for Designing and Integrating the Semantic Layer” delivers a step-by-step guide to the design and implementation of a semantic layer, covering a range of best practices to ensure the success of an initiative. “Chapter IV: Real-World Success Stories” expands on various real-world examples, presenting case studies from a range of organizations that have successfully implemented a semantic layer and detailing the use cases, approaches, and outcomes. Finally, “Chapter V: Powering Artificial Intelligence and Beyond” covers the interrelationship between the semantic layer framework and AI, elaborating on the ways in which these two fields can mutually benefit one another and concluding with a look into the future on how mature organizations are evolving their semantic ecosystems to drive responsible AI adoption and further competitive capabilities. 

This book is intended for practitioners seeking to implement the semantic layer within their own organization, for those interested in learning how to do so, as well as for executives or business stakeholders that may find themselves overseeing such a program.

Joseph Hilger has over 30 years of experience leading and implementing cutting-edge, enterprise-scale IT projects. He was an early pioneer in the use of Agile techniques for knowledge management systems design, implementation, and integrations projects. Joe is an expert in implementing enterprise-scale graph, search, and data analytics solutions. In addition to his role as COO of Enterprise Knowledge, he is a speaker and instructor on topics including enterprise search, graphs, and AI. Joe is the coauthor of Making Knowledge Management Clickable, published by Springer in 2022.

 Lulit Tesfaye brings close to 20 years of experience leading strategy and delivery for enterprise knowledge and data programs across diverse sectors. She founded the Semantic Data and AI Engineering Practices, spearheading the adoption of semantic standards, knowledge graphs, and AI integration in organizational information strategies. Lulit is a published expert, keynote speaker, and educator, serving on advisory boards for industry organizations and iSchool/data management programs at various universities.

Zachary Wahl has over 25 years of experience leading programs in the knowledge and information management space. Early in his career, he defined the business taxonomy concept to address the need for human-centered taxonomy designs, a formative element of today’s advanced semantic solutions. He has worked with hundreds of public and private organizations in over forty countries to successfully strategize, design, and implement advanced KM and semantic solutions. In addition to his role as CEO of Enterprise Knowledge, he is a frequent speaker and facilitator on the combination of KM, semantics, and AI. Zach is the coauthor of Making Knowledge Management Clickable, one of the leading books on knowledge management strategy and design.