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Data Indexing Strategies Metadata Metadata is simply "data about data ." Metadata gives detailed information about all aspects of geospatial data . Metadata can give background information about: • Source • History • Content • Quality • Condition • Availability Processing • Technical Details Although metadata is usually developed and obtained in a digital format , metadata can be posted as part of a paper map , primarily as part of the map legend . In this form , metadata is readily apparent and easily transferred between map producers and map users . This data is usually fairly simple and short, maybe just a few sentences , conveying the generalities about the data . For example : "This flood plain map was created with data obtained from USGS , ,. was created in 1998, is in California State Plane ( U .S . Feet) and the datum is NAD83. " Digital data requires more effort and detail in development and maintenance on the part of data producers . However, this data is valuable in two ways : 1 . The primary creator of the data benefits because metadata maintains the value of the data set, enabling its continued use over time 2 . Metadata helps other users to find and use geo-spatial data , especially if the data are stored in a GIS clearinghouse or general repository Various metadata standards have been developed over the years . One standard in wide use and acceptance is the Federal Geographic Data Committee ( FDGC ) " Content Standards for Digital Geospatial Metadata " in use by all Federal data producing agencies . The comprehensive metadata example provided below (see Example C ) complies with Federal guidelines . However, there are minimum content standards that greatly simplify this standard , and alternatives are also presented . ArcCataloq It is strongly recommended that the GIS Director implement a data indexing system to logically organize and share data . For immediate expanded use of GIS throughout the organization , metadata , storage location , and maintenance processes should be documented so all potential users of the GIS data will have a better understanding of the dataset they are using . Integrating metadata into a GIS in a way that is readily accessible to users of all experience } levels has proven to be a major challenge . Additionally, many government and private agencies have found the metadata system to be a bit cumbersome ; consequently, these entities have not proactively updated or created this base information which is so crucial for end-users . With ESRI ' s latest release of ArcGIS 9 , GIS data indexing has greatly improved and as a result has allowed GIS users charged with managing data to update and edit 6- 17 GIS Needs Assessment and Implementation Plan Chapter 6 - Data Standards and Transfer