Overview
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Metadata is data [information] that provides information about other data. Information such as: the data source, date of the dataset, how the dataset was created, how it can be shared, and other details about its use. The creation of metadata is vital to ensure that the copyright of the data are preserved and any specifics on the use of the data are maintained. Everyone loves having lots of metadata attached to their datasets, but creating and maintaining these metadata is often too burdensome during field operations.
When metadata is included with a dataset:
- It improves understanding of the dataset (reduces questions and confusion of it use and history)
- Increases credibility/reliability of data
- Provides transparency about data that is not complete or not perfect (sets expectations and can provide purpose of dataset)
- It can increase interest by others iwho may have data you are missing
- Directly related to discoverability on HDX. These specific elements are used in the search algorithm
- Tag
- Title
- Description
- Location
- Contributor (Organization)
- Source
Where Metadata can be found
When developing metadata for Common Operational Datasets (or any dataset that is shared on HDX) consider where it will be located:
on HDX | In / with the Dataset | in COD-AB web services |
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Process
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To balance the need for metadata against the burden of creating and maintaining it, OCHA recommends a 3-tiered system of metadata options:
Tier 1: Emergency Metadata
Tier 2: Basic Metadata
Tier 3: Full Metadata
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- FAQ on HDX
- Metadata Guide which provides an outline of the metadata required for HDX.
- Be clear about the license type (see Data License section)
- Metadata in the COD lifecycle