SWAPBibster is an application based on technologies of SWAP - a system combining Semantic Web and Peer-to-peer technologies.  Peer-to-Peer systems are characterized as distributed systems without any centralized control or hierarchical organization. Each node in the system runs software with equivalent functionality. The main features of Peer-to-Peer applications yields a long list: redundant storage, permanence, selection of nearby servers, anonymity, search, authentication, and hierarchical naming. The Semantic Web is an extension of the current web in which information is given well-defined meaning, better enabling computers and people to work in cooperation. In a distributed knowledge management system these Semantic Web techniques can be used to express knowledge shared by peers in a well-defined and formal way. SWAP provides the technology that is necessary to allow users their individual views on knowledge and let them share knowledge effectively. In order to allow for individual views, every user is treated as a peer and every user may ask queries to the network of peers. In order to actually find the right piece of knowledge, SWAP employs Semantic Web technology. Current peer-to-peer technology only allows for keyword search and lacks the semantics that is necessary for effective, precise knowledge sharing. Current knowledge repositories lack the capability to provide really individual views in a decentralized framework with low administration overhead. SWAP will produce both. SWAP is a project funding as a shared-cost R&D in the European Commission Information Societies Technology (IST) programme.  The following partners participate in SWAP: |
