Data-transformation on historical data using the RDF data cube vocabulary

Abstract

This work describes a Data-Integration process, in particular, how XML-based TEI documents with statistical data can be normalized, converted and enriched using the RDF Data Cube Vocabulary. Due to the their inherent complex structure, a simple row-by-row based conversion approach is not sufficient. Therefore, the complex structured tables must be validated, modified and transformed, until they are suitable for the standardized multi-dimensional data structure - the data cube. This paper will especially focus on the transformations necessary to normalize the structure of the tables. A second focus is on the advantages, which come by using the RDF Data Cube Vocabulary. Also, a research prototype was implemented to execute the workflow and convert the statistical data into data cubes.