CREATING AN INSTITUTIONAL STANDARD FOR METADATA

Metadata are used primarily to provide information to users about data sets. Within an organization, however, metadata can be used as a cataloging and locating device. The Indiana Geological Survey inventories its data, information, and physical samples using a custom-designed computer application called a metadata builder. This tool provides a consistent method of constructing metadata by means of standardized entry assistance, such as drop-down lists, keyword lists, and definitions; it also allows staff to select text, and the tool inputs numeric equivalents, such as bounding coordinates. The use of a standardized vocabulary minimizes errors and hastens editing. The metadata builder is relatively self explanatory, but in-house staff training assures that all staff members are familiar with reading, writing, and using metadata.

Viewed through an Internet clearinghouse, the first glimpse of metadata created using this tool is a summary of the entire metadata record. The summary allows the user to quickly scan numerous metadata records to locate the specific data being sought. The in-depth, fully compliant Federal Geographic Data Committee (FGDC) metadata are available to the user once the search of summary records is refined. Metadata provide institutional users with information internal to the organization, such as barcode number, physical location, and an historical catalog.