The architecture of the Catena-X data space consists of three main areas...

1. Core Services:  

• enable the basic functions of the Catena-X ecosystem such as identity or data discovery on a data space level

• some of these services are operated only once in the data space  

2. Enablement services: 

• can be deployed either self-managed by each participant or managed by an Enablement Service provider to provide or consume data within the Catena-X data space. The basis is the Eclipse Dataspace Connector (EDC). Depending on the use case and the legacy system, it is possible to integrate several EDC extensions or backend data services.

3. Business applications: 

• solve a specific business problem such as demand and capacity management, circular economy

• can range from large enterprise solutions to specialized solutions for small and medium sized enterprises.

Operators thus take on a central role in "bringing the data ecosystem to life". In the future, the Catena-X data ecosystem will be implemented in a decentralized manner by various operators. The operators will implement the services of the three areas described separately, following the standards and norms specified by the Catena-X Automotive Network e.V.. Each operator can, of course, take on one or more roles.

Our operator model is based on the concepts and values of Gaia-X and the International Data Space Association (ISDA). Furthermore it integrates the specific requirements of the automotive industry for compliance and security.

The Catena-X Operating Modell is… 

…organized in a decentralized way: 

• We leave operations in the hands of many instead of a few providers to ensure fair competition, innovation and better business conditions for all participants of the data ecosystem. 
   
• In the long term, we want to replace services that are initially provided centrally with decentralized and federated operating concepts.

• Our operating environment is intended to consist of multiple core service providers, allowing subscribers to choose their preferred provider.

• To this end, we are exploring the extent to which the operation of core services can be federated or decentralized.

… interoperable with other data ecosystems  

• Catena-X is currently exploring how to enable interoperability of our data ecosystem with other data room initiatives as part of a European project. 

In an effort to bring together the competencies in the ecosystem in the best possible way, we have defined different operator roles.

• Core Service Provider 
• Enablement Service Provider 
• Business Application Provider 
• Onboarding Service Provider 
• Consulting Provider
• Data Provider and Consumer