A co-design methodology optimizing data use
To optimize the use of its vast resources, e-shape, with the support of the Centre de Gestion Scientifique de Mines Paris – PSL, has developed and adopted a co-design methodology for services based on Earth Observation. Initially intended for scientific purposes, Earth Observation (EO) data is now accessible to all economic players thanks to open data policies. The socio-economic applications of this data are diverse and promising, affecting research communities, public authorities, private companies, universities and citizens. In a report published in May 2024, the World Economic Forum states that Earth observation data could contribute more than €700 billion to the global economy by 2030, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 2 gigatons, according to the Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG Protocol). However, developing practical uses for this data presents a number of challenges.
e-shape brings together highly heterogeneous socio-economic ecosystems. The time cycles of EO data ecosystems and those of potential uses are often very different. For example, the development of new measuring instruments can take much longer than the short action schedules of the companies using the data. What’s more, processing the data requires specific technical expertise, while using it requires a different kind of expertise. Co-design aims to link these varied ecosystems by developing IoT-based services and supporting their long-term dynamics.
As part of this approach, e-shape designs and tests a co-design model that takes into account the specificities of the IoT, in collaboration with its partners. A diagnostic process is put in place to help pilots structure their co-design strategy by identifying relevant actions over different time horizons. In addition, rigorous protocols are established for carrying out co-design actions, ensuring the growth and resilience of the EO ecosystem.
New impetus for sustainability and Earth observation
Thanks to its work, e-shape has initiated a change of mindset in favor of sustainability, integrating the use of information and communication technologies. The project has mainstreamed the use of business processes to ensure the sustainability of each pilot project, and has reinforced the adoption of GEO principles within the Earth Observation (EO) community. By deploying a multi-channel dissemination strategy, including the web, social networks and various scientific organizations, e-shape has succeeded in reaching a wide audience in a multi-disciplinary way.
The systematic study of the sustainability and effectiveness of its methods, and the creation of a best practice guide for EU bodies, have solidified the project’s reputation for quality and rigor. This has reinforced e-shape’s influence on political decision-making.
However, the unbalanced maturity levels of countries in terms of technology, research and innovation underline the fragmentation of Europe. These disparities highlight the need to tailor capacity-building and support services to the specific needs of each region. In the face of this heterogeneity, e-shape demonstrates the need to build, through research and development (R&D), the foundations for future dedicated services, thus establishing itself as the best common player in the EO field.
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