Start with data that matters to you
Federated Wikibase makes it possible for independently created knowledge bases to connect while retaining their own perspectives. Semantic interoperability can make those connections more useful and reliable. But designing for every future connection before creating any data can also prevent a project from getting started.
This workshop therefore begins somewhere simpler: create a small dataset that is useful to you. Participants will identify a question from their own research or practice, decide what they need to describe, and make a workable dataset for that immediate purpose.
Only then will we ask how these independently created datasets might connect.
What we will explore
- how to choose a manageable dataset from a real personal or project need;
- how Wikibase represents entities, statements, sources, and uncertainty;
- how independently designed datasets can discover useful connections;
- how to improve data after connection reveals gaps or inconsistencies; and
- how a federation can develop through continuing negotiation rather than one-time standardization.
What you need
Bring a laptop with a current web browser and an idea, collection, question, or small body of information you care about. No Wikibase administration experience or programming knowledge is required. Public, synthetic, or safely de-identified examples are welcome; please do not bring sensitive or restricted data.
The workshop is intended for digital humanists, researchers, collection specialists, data stewards, research software engineers, students, and anyone interested in building reusable knowledge from their own materials.
What we hope to make possible
Participants should leave with a small but meaningful dataset, a clearer understanding of how it could connect to other work, and a practical next step for improving it. Over time, participant datasets and projects may be registered and presented through this site, allowing the workshop community to discover connections and learn from one another.
The detailed schedule and hands-on materials will be published shortly before the workshop. This page currently provides an overview of the workshop’s purpose, approach, and participation requirements.
Pre-conference events are open to registered DH2026 participants. Select the event through ConfTool. See the official DH2026 pre-conference program for authoritative registration and access information.