metadata standards

Metadata standards are guidelines that help organize and describe information, making it easier to find and use. Think of metadata as a label on a box; it provides key details about the contents, such as the title, author, and date. Standards ensure consistency across different systems and formats, so that information can be shared and understood universally. Common examples include Dublin Core for web resources and MARC for library catalogs. By adhering to these standards, organizations can improve data management, interoperability, and resource discovery within various fields.