The document outlines a linked data context strategy for the BBC to improve the usefulness of its content. It proposes using linked data to provide context about the subjects of BBC output that is currently lacking. Linked data allows freedom to build custom APIs and leverage inference to minimize workload compared to commercial data sources that are not modeled at the right level of granularity. The strategy involves consuming, managing and publishing linked data according to principles of treating the web as a content management system and making the BBC website its own API.

1. Research and Development ♥ BBC MMXIII
A Linked Data Context Strategy
for the BBC
Michael Smethurst,
BBC Internet Research and Future Services
With thanks to
Yves Raimond, Tristan Ferne, Olivier Thereaux, Paul Rissen

2. Why Linked Data?
1. Content needs context to be useful
2. The BBC has data on its output but not on the
subjects of its output
3. Commercial data is usually modelled at the wrong
level (saleable items)
4. Commercial data doesn’t give you the freedom to
make your own APIs on top
5. Using inference minimises workload

3. Linked data

4. 1. Consuming linked data
2. Managing linked data
3. Publishing linked data

7. Loose coupling via shared identifiers

8. Linked data as experience prism

12. Principle #1:
The web is our CMS

13. 1. Consuming linked data
2. Managing linked data
3. Publishing linked data

14. Annotate once, infer
and re-use

17. 1. Consuming linked data
2. Managing linked data
3. Publishing linked data

18. Principle #2:
Our web site is our API

21. Thank you.
Questions to
michael.smethurst@bbc.co.uk
@fantasticlife