The Basis of Unified Data

The basis for unified data is data provenance and a model of how data propagates to the processes where it is consumed. “Like DNA, data has provenance”, seems like a provocative statement to make. Common sense, however, tells us that everything we know of has provenance and everything has a purpose. Data is no different. Transposing this to software means that system applications need to preserve data provenance and at the same time track how data propagates to all processes, where it is required. For example, spare parts need to be identified by manufacturers, spare part providers and buyers in different type of processes, from planned maintenance, to requisitioning, vendor selection, despatch up to deliveries onboard vessels.