Citizen Information Services Enabled by Semantic Web? The Case of the Schleswig-Holstein Responsibility Finder

This research in progress seeks to explore and substantiate to what extent the vision and the technologies of the Semantic Web are the key for solving the problem of cross-organizational information management as a prerequisite for citizen information services. As a first step, this paper reflects on a case in which all actors involved seek for a practical solution to implement a state-wide responsibility finder as the primary citizen information service, given that a central information system to support this application is not feasible. The case analysis highlights the requirements for cross-organizational information management with respect to informational requirements, service priorities and IT infrastructure. Then, the potential of Semantic Web technologies for this and similar cases is assessed by referring to the criteria of Semantic Web applications and existing interoperability recommendations. The paper concludes with pointing to the next required steps of research which can contribute to practical solutions and bring about a breakthrough of Semantic Web for egovernment.