Spreadsheets are widely used by knowledge workers, especially in the industrial sector. Their methodology enables a well understood, easy and fast possibility to enter data. As filling out a spreadsheet is more accessible to common knowledge workers than defining RDF statements, in this paper, we propose an easy-to-use, zero-configuration, web-based spreadsheet editor that simultaneously transfers spreadsheet entries into RDF statements. It enables various kinds of users to easily create semantic data whether they are RDF experts or novices. The typical scenario we address focuses on creating instance data starting with an empty knowledge base that is filled incrementally. In a user study, participants were able to create more statements in shorter time, having similar or even significantly outperforming quality, compared to other approaches.
In this paper, we describe Swoop, a hypermedia inspired Ontology Browser and Editor based on OWL, the recently standardized Web-oriented ontology language. After discussing the design rationale and architecture of Swoop, we focus mainly on its features, using illustrative examples to highlight its use. We demonstrate that with its Web-metaphor, adherence to OWL recommendations and key unique features, such as Collaborative Annotation using Annotea, Swoop acts as a useful and efficient Web Ontology development tool. We conclude with a list of future plans for Swoop, that should further increase its overall appeal and accessibility.