What is a Metadata Registry?

A Metadata Registry is defined as an automated resource "used to describe, document, protect, control and access informational representations of an enterprise". There are various interpretations of what is held in a metadata registry:

• Standardized information in a pre-defined model
• Metadata, system metadata, system engineering
• Reference information

A typical metadata registry has the following characteristics:

• A generic model to store all the information.
• A 'formal' registration process that allows elements or objects to be properly 'registered' (i.e. accepted) in the registry.
• Layered organization and responsibility structure for approvals and standardization.
• Strong stewardship and security controls.
• Different options to present the information to the users in order to facilitate the main objective of the registry i.e. information sharing.
• Extranet access (to facilitate data exchange).

Benefits of a metadata registry:

• Provides the mechanisms for enabling global data acquisition and interchange, particularly across application areas. Data definitions and descriptions are precise to support reuse or multiple users of data.
• Documentation of data characteristics to support fully automated sharing of data, including locating, retrieving, and exchanging data.
• Provides uniform guidance for the identification, development, and description of elements and domains.
• Metadata registries provide universal means for organizing standard shareable elements thereby facilitating search, retrieval and optimal usage.
• Sets up common data standards between organizations. Exchange of data among organizations is facilitated with the common data standards.

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