Secure Multi-Org Data-Sharing Project (SMODS)

The Secure Multi-Org Data-Sharing (SMODS) Project, is a game-changing data sharing platform which will enable secure and efficient data sharing between organisations. This project has a strong focus on real time multi media data sharing between Emergency Service Organisations (ESOs) for improved situational awareness during emergency events. Led by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) in consultation with World Data Exchange, SMODS aims to reshape emergency response capabilities through this innovative technology.

The SMODS project was successfully completed and demonstrated on 4 December 2023 at Cicada Innovations.

The Problem – Data Silos and Fragmented Communication
In emergencies, quick access to real-time data is critical. However, current data-sharing systems often struggle with delays, data silos, and privacy concerns, limiting the effectiveness of emergency response operations.

Market Gaps – Limitations of current data sharing platforms
Traditional platforms face several challenges:

Slow dissemination of critical information
Fragmented communication channels between organisations
Lack of robust privacy protections and manual data-sharing processes

The Solution: SMODS- A Secure, scalable Data Sharing platform
SMODS solves these challenges by implementing a web based, decentralised, privacy-preserving data-sharing platform that leverages cutting-edge technology to ensure secure and efficient data access.

Key features include:

SMODS is the only data sharing platform that incorporates the Australian Computer Society’s Data Sharing Framework: Evaluates privacy levels, assesses access risks, and manages data lifecycles.
Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): A flexible and scalable security model ensuring only authorised users can access sensitive data.
OAuth Authentication: Seamless integration with existing systems for secure server-to-server authentication.
AI-Driven Automation: Real-time data product generation, including video sharing, with strict privacy protections.

Applications

Emergency services: Real-time data access for quick, informed decision-making during crisis situations.
Government agencies: Secure, scalable communication between public and private sector stakeholders.
Multi-organisation collaboration: Streamlined data sharing across sectors to improve situational awareness and operational efficiency.

Project Milestones

May 2023: Six-month demonstration showcasing the platform’s capabilities in enhancing emergency response and situational awareness through secure data-sharing

December 2023: Final demonstration unveiling the revolutionary platform for secure, efficient, and privacy-driven data-sharing, emphasising its robust capabilities tailored for emergency response scenarios

December 2023 and Beyond: Phase Two development

Current/Ongoing activities:

Since its successful final demonstration, the CIN is working with government agencies to explore early adoption of the SMODS platform.

It is anticipated that an Expression of Interest for commercialisation partner(s) will be released in the coming months.

Project duration:

12 months

Project status:

Complete

100%

Project leaders:

Professor Ren Ping Liu – University of Technology Sydney

Dr Xu Wang – University of Technology Sydney

Industry collaborators:

World Data Exchange

Dr Xu Wang and Dr Ian Oppermann during the final demonstration of the Secure Multi-Org Data-Sharing (SMODS) Project in December 2023

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who benefits from this technology?

The Secure Multi-Org Data-Sharing (SMODS) Project benefits a wide range of organisations and communities, particularly:

Emergency Service Organisations (ESOs) – ESOs benefit immensely from the platform’s real-time multimedia data-sharing capabilities, improving situational awareness, coordination, and decision-making during crises, ultimately enhancing response times and saving lives.
Government and Public Safety Agencies – These bodies gain a secure, reliable platform for inter-agency communication, enabling swift, data-driven responses to emergencies and enhancing public safety through coordinated efforts.
Local Communities and the General Public – Indirectly, the public benefits from improved emergency response and coordinated services, leading to faster, safer resolutions during disasters and enhanced protection of lives and property.
Private Sector and Critical Infrastructure Organisations – SMODS provides these entities with a secure communication link to collaborate with emergency services, enabling rapid coordination to protect critical infrastructure such as power, water, and telecommunications networks.
Health Services – During emergencies, health services can access critical, real-time information about incidents, allowing them to allocate resources, secure patient routes, and ensure continuity of care under challenging conditions.