Definition
Metadata are data that describe other data. They identify their origin, structure, meaning, format, owner and intended use.
Human Explanation
Metadata help people understand what data represent, where they came from and how they should be interpreted.
Why it Matters
Without Metadata, data may be difficult to find, understand or use correctly.
Conceptual Boundary
Metadata do not contain the information being analysed. They describe how data are organised and what they mean.
Practical Perspective
Well-managed Metadata improve transparency, quality and the potential to reuse data.