eInfrastructure Concertation
The availability of an infrastructure based on advanced computational, data storage and network technologies (eInfrastructure) is important for conducting high-quality research. Based on the high-capacity communication network GÉANT2 and on the distributed computing 'grid' concept, Europe is implementing an ambitious eInfrastructure concept which enables researchers to use state-of-the-art technology to participate in leading-edge projects and to innovate the way they carry out their research.
Cross-fertilisation and optimisation of synergies between GÉANT2, grids and testbeds are essential factors for the success of this concept which is a basic foundation for the European Reserch Research Area (ERA). The European Commission's eInfrastructure Concertation initiative is therefore aimed at stimulating cooperation and knowledge exchange between members of FP6-funded projects. It has three main objectives:
- develop synergies between network and grid projects
- improve and advance the service that the eInfrastructure projects can provide to the research community with a 'joined up' approach
- support collective efforts among these initiatives, including impact on standards development
The idea behind eConcertation is to encourage discussion around areas where it is felt that projects could benefit from an integrated approach.
The first eConcertation meeting was held in November 2004 within the context of the EGEE-02 conference in The Hague.
The second eConcertation workshop took place on 14 December 2005, in Bordeaux, France. Whilst the focus of the 1st event was mainly on grids, the 2nd edition focussed more on network related issues. For more information on this meeting, including the workshop report, please follow the links on the right-hand side of this page.
