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About us

Who manages this platform?

This platform is run by the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property (IPI).

Industrial data and non-personal data play a central role in the digital economy. When accessible, they foster innovation, improve products and processes, and support the further development of artificial intelligence. However, this data is often held by private companies that either deliberately restrict access or lack suitable solutions for sharing it. This is where this platform comes in: It helps SMEs share and access industrial data more easily, fostering collaboration and innovation.

The IPI’s role in facilitating access to industrial data 

In 2019, the Swiss Federal Council tasked the IPI with exploring ways to facilitate access to non-personal data in the private sector. In a report adopted by the Federal Council on 26 May 2021, the IPI analysed the legal and economic situation in Switzerland and Europe and identified concrete options for action. 

Based on this report, the Federal Council instructed the IPI to develop practical tools to support companies in accessing and sharing data, including: 

  • Model contracts for data sharing 
  • Checklists to ensure secure data exchanges 
  • Summary documents highlighting best practices
  • Measures to promote collaboration around industrial data 

 

A platform developed with input from industry experts 

This platform and the tools provided were developed in collaboration with practitioners and experts from the field, to best meet the concrete needs of companies.

Our partners

Towards Better Use of Data Potential in Switzerland

Data utilization in Switzerland needs to be optimized to ensure its reliable use for the benefit of society, research, and the economy. Improved data reuse would also strengthen the country's ability to respond effectively in times of crisis.

 

To achieve this goal, establishing a comprehensive Swiss data ecosystem is essential. 

 

The Federal Council has adopted several measures to promote this ecosystem, including:

  • Implementation of motion 22.3890 “Development of a framework law on data reuse”: The Federal Department of Justice and Police has been tasked with developing the necessary legal foundations for data reuse. The draft law for public consultation is expected to be submitted to the Federal Council by the end of 2026.
  • Adoption of a Code of Conduct for Trusted Data Spaces: The Federal Council has approved a code of conduct that serves as a reference framework for the federal administration, though it is not legally binding. It is also intended for private sector actors, the scientific community, and civil society, who can voluntarily adopt it. Compliance with the code of conduct contributes to the development and operation of secure and trustworthy data spaces.
  • Establishment of a Central Contact Point for the Swiss Data Ecosystem: This contact point will play a key role in coordinating sector-specific data spaces (e.g., health, agriculture) by ensuring their interoperability and reliability, as well as developing essential central infrastructure components.

 

A Strategic Framework for Digital Transformation

The "Digital Switzerland" strategy sets the guidelines for the country's digital transformation. Binding for the federal administration, it also serves as a reference for cantons, municipalities, businesses, the scientific community, and civil society, helping all stakeholders maximize the opportunities presented by digital transformation. 

 

Within this framework, the "Digital Self-Determination Network", established in 2019, aims to enable citizens, businesses, and public institutions to leverage the data economy while adhering to liberal democratic values. 

 

Additionally, several tools facilitate data access and use in Switzerland:

  • opendata.swiss: The central portal for open government data (OGD) provided by Swiss public authorities.
  • I14Y Interoperability Platform: The national metadata catalog facilitating data exchange and integration across the country.

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