GI-Cat: a web service for dataset cataloguing based on ISO 19115

In this article, we Present the GI-Cat service: a SOAP-based web service providing basic functionalities for GI dataset cataloguing and access. The GI-Cat object model schema is instance of the hierarchical, semi-structured data model and is based on the ISO 19115 data model. GI-Cat requirements, information model (resources and accompanying metadata) and functional modules are introduced Some of the architectural and technological aspects of an experimental implementation of the service are briefly described Eventually, we relate GI-Cat to OWS(TM) specifications. The proposed solution is being currently experimented in the framework of the COS(OT) project, that is part of the Italian National Operating Program on Scientific and Technological Research and High Education.