What is a semantic data model ?

Semantic data models (such as the Resource Description Framework) have emerged from the requirement for more expressive data models. In particular the context of data is addressed in an explicit way.

A semantic data model follows a specific object oriented model where relationships between classes are again expressed through classes. This results in a data graph which is directly readable for humans. It also allows for the query engine to process meta-queries in a much more efficient way and opens the path to semantic rules and digital reasoning.