Interoperability: meaning, definitions and examples

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interoperability

 

[ˌɪn.tərˌɒp.əˈræb.əl.ə.ti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in technology

The ability of computer systems or software to exchange and make use of information.

Synonyms

compatibility, integration, interchangeability.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
interoperability

The ability of different systems or organizations to work together seamlessly, often used in the context of technology, healthcare, and information systems.

  • The new software enhances interoperability between different hospital systems.
  • Interoperability of national defense systems is crucial for joint military operations.
compatibility

The capacity of two things to exist or work together without problems or conflict. Often used when referring to software, relationships, or devices.

  • Make sure your phone's operating system is compatible with this app.
  • Their tastes in music showed great compatibility.
integration

The process of combining parts or elements into a whole, often used when discussing software systems, business processes, or social policies.

  • The integration of the new CRM system took several months.
  • Social integration helps create a more cohesive community.
interchangeability

The quality of being able to be exchanged or replaced with something else without functional loss, often used in manufacturing and mechanical contexts.

  • The interchangeability of these parts makes repairs much easier.
  • Standardized components ensure interchangeability in the assembly line.

Examples of usage

  • Ensuring interoperability between different devices is crucial for seamless communication in a network.
  • The new software update improved the interoperability with other platforms.
Context #2 | Noun

in business

The ability of different organizations or systems to work together effectively.

Synonyms

collaboration, cooperation, interaction.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
interoperability

This term is primarily used in technology and engineering settings to describe the ability of different systems, devices, or applications to work together and share information seamlessly.

  • The interoperability between different software platforms has improved significantly.
  • Ensuring interoperability is crucial for the integration of new technological solutions.
collaboration

Use this word in situations where people are working together towards a common goal, often in a professional or creative setting. It implies a deeper level of partnership and shared responsibility.

  • Successful projects often result from effective collaboration between team members.
  • The collaboration between the artists resulted in a stunning mural.
cooperation

This term is appropriate for general scenarios where individuals or groups are working together towards a shared objective. It tends to be used more broadly than 'collaboration' and may involve more independent work.

  • International cooperation is essential in addressing global issues like climate change.
  • We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining a clean workspace.
interaction

Suitable for any situation where individuals, groups, or systems are in contact with each other, either directly or indirectly. This term is broad and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

  • The interaction between the teacher and students is key to effective learning.
  • Social interactions play a crucial role in human development.

Examples of usage

  • The success of the project depended on the interoperability of the various departments.
  • The lack of interoperability between the two companies caused delays in the merger process.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin prefix 'inter-', meaning 'between', and 'operability', which relates to the ability to operate.
  • First used in the late 20th century as technologies began to merge and interact more frequently.
  • It highlights the importance of connection and compatibility across various platforms.

Technology

  • Interoperability is crucial in the field of information technology and software development, ensuring that different systems can communicate effectively.
  • In medical technology, interoperability allows different healthcare systems to share patient data, improving care and safety.
  • It's a key principle behind the success of cloud computing, where various services can be utilized together seamlessly.

Business

  • Companies that prioritize interoperability can enhance their product offerings and improve customer experience by integrating with third-party services.
  • The rise of open-source software promotes interoperability, allowing users to customize and integrate solutions more efficiently.
  • Collaboration among businesses often hinges on their systems being interoperable, fostering innovation and shared solutions.

Education

  • Interoperability in education technology allows different learning management systems to share resources, making it easier for teachers and students.
  • Digital platforms that are interoperable can provide students with a more cohesive learning experience, utilizing various resources and tools.
  • In collaborative learning environments, interoperability helps students work together across different devices and software.

Global Development

  • In international development, interoperable systems can improve response efforts during crises by facilitating communication between organizations.
  • Interoperability among different countries' systems can enhance collaboration on global issues like climate change and public health.
  • Organizations often work towards achieving interoperability standards to streamline efforts and avoid duplication in their initiatives.

Translations

Translations of the word "interoperability" in other languages:

🇵🇹 interoperabilidade

🇮🇳 अंतरसंचालनीयता

🇩🇪 Interoperabilität

🇮🇩 interoperabilitas

🇺🇦 взаємодія

🇵🇱 interoperacyjność

🇯🇵 相互運用性 (そうごうんようせい)

🇫🇷 interopérabilité

🇪🇸 interoperabilidad

🇹🇷 birlikte çalışabilirlik

🇰🇷 상호 운용성 (상호운용성)

🇸🇦 التشغيل البيني

🇨🇿 interoperabilita

🇸🇰 interoperabilita

🇨🇳 互操作性

🇸🇮 interoperabilnost

🇮🇸 samvirkni

🇰🇿 өзара іс-қимыл

🇬🇪 ურთიერთთავსებადობა

🇦🇿 qarşılıqlı fəaliyyət

🇲🇽 interoperabilidad

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,803, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.