Skip to main content

Core Concepts

The following concepts are fundamental to working with CIVITAS/CORE. → Find more concepts in our Glossary

Platform​

A Platform is the central environment in which your organization operates.

  • Provides the workspace for managing your organization's data and Users
  • Enables the creation and management of Users, Groups, and Roles
  • Contains all data-related elements within a defined organizational context
  • Controls access to all data-related elements

Dataset​

A Dataset is a structured collection of data that is made available for use.

  • Is based on a Datasource
  • Can be processed or transformed through Pipelines
  • Contains base information and access permissions
  • Can be shared and consumed within the Platform

Data source​

A Data source represents the origin of data, such as databases, APIs, files, or data streams.

  • Connects external or internal data to the Platform
  • Uses a Data Structure to define how the data is interpreted
  • Includes access permissions and lifecycle management

Data structure​

A Data structure defines the schema of your data.

  • Describes entities, attributes (fields and data types), and relationships
  • Ensures consistent data modeling across the Platform
  • Is independent, reusable, and versioned
  • Includes access permissions and lifecycle management

Pipeline​

A Pipeline defines how data is ingested, processed, and prepared within a Dataset.

  • Runs within a Dataset to generate usable data (payload)
  • Ingests data from Data Sources
  • Can use Data Structures to interpret, validate, or transform data
  • Transforms and enriches data through defined processing steps
  • Produces data that can be accessed via APIs

Standard roles in CIVITAS/CORE​

CIVITAS/CORE is used by different Roles, each with specific responsibilities in managing and governing data:

  • Tenant Admin: Manages Users, Groups, and access at Platform level
  • Data Architect: Defines Data structures and technical setups
  • Data Steward: Creates and maintains data-related elements
  • Data Owner: Is responsible for data and approves its availability
  • Data Gatekeeper: Reviews and releases data for use

Detailed descriptions of each role are provided in the Role Guides section.