Methodology for technology watch and comparative analysis of information and data management systems

This document defines a methodology to be used by stakeholders, decision makers and engineers alike for analysing and comparing different information and data management systems with the purpose of identifying elements for convergence, technology and interoperability gaps and areas for improvement. The methodology is applicable at different levels including o Systems of systems or initiatives o Systems/projects o Subsystems or single components. This methodology may be used as the basis for examining the requirements, architectures and standards applied on the systems in order to provide an evaluation of them in terms of business, enterprise, information and engineering and technology architecture, as well as their strategic alignment. The intended readership is project managers and system analysts, and should be of particular interest to those addressing aspects of interoperability in the context of GEOSS, INSPIRE and GMES.