1 Choose a metadata standard

A metadata standard is a set of rules and guidelines for creating and formatting metadata. It ensures consistency, accuracy, and interoperability of your metadata across different platforms and systems. There are many metadata standards to choose from, depending on your project's purpose, scope, and audience. Some of the common ones are Dublin Core, MODS, EAD, and VRA Core. You should research and select a metadata standard that suits your project's needs and follows the principles of good metadata.

2 Use a metadata schema

A metadata schema is a structure that defines the elements, attributes, and values of your metadata. It specifies what kind of information you need to include, how to label it, and how to arrange it. A metadata schema can be based on a metadata standard or customized for your project. You should use a metadata schema that is clear, concise, and comprehensive, and that reflects the content and context of your project.

3 Create a metadata template

A metadata template is a document or a form that helps you to enter and edit your metadata according to your metadata schema. It can be a spreadsheet, a word processor, a database, or a software application. A metadata template can save you time and effort, and ensure consistency and quality of your metadata. You should create a metadata template that is easy to use, flexible, and adaptable, and that supports your project's workflow and goals.

4 Use controlled vocabularies

Controlled vocabularies are standardized lists of terms or phrases that are used to describe and index your project. They can be subject headings, thesauri, ontologies, or taxonomies. Controlled vocabularies can help you to avoid ambiguity, inconsistency, and duplication of your metadata, and to enhance its discoverability and usability. You should use controlled vocabularies that are relevant, authoritative, and compatible with your project's domain and audience.

5 Apply metadata quality criteria

Metadata quality criteria are the measures and indicators that evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of your metadata. They can include accuracy, completeness, currency, consistency, relevance, and usability. Metadata quality criteria can help you to identify and correct errors, gaps, and inconsistencies in your metadata, and to improve its performance and value. You should apply metadata quality criteria throughout your project's lifecycle, and use tools and methods such as validation, verification, review, and feedback.

6 Use metadata management tools

Metadata management tools are the software applications that help you to create, store, edit, export, and share your metadata. They can be standalone or integrated with other systems or platforms. Metadata management tools can help you to automate and streamline your metadata processes, and to enhance its interoperability and sustainability. You should use metadata management tools that are compatible with your metadata standard and schema, and that meet your project's functional and technical requirements.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?