The metadata maturity model

Abstract

Metadata matter. Metadata creation is a strategic imperative for any organisation looking to manage and exploit its knowledge more effectively. The effective implementation of any content-related strategy — inclusive of data, digital assets or text — should address overall management by implementing metadata with technology, people and processes in mind. A well-planned metadata schema can provide foundational value, providing the conceptual architecture needed to make content more discoverable, accessible and ultimately more valuable. Metadata turn video, audio or graphic files into ‘smart content’ that is available to reuse, re-purpose or simply inspire. Applying the metadata maturity model to digital initiatives will provide an agnostic framework through which to understand current use and priorities for discovery, accessibility and preservation of content for the future. The five maturity levels are benchmarks that provide an opportunity to discuss metadata development and improvement. The metadata maturity model provides a common framework through which organisations can understand the use and management of their content’s metadata. Applying the model to content management initiatives allows for strategic understanding of current use and priorities for discovery, accessibility and preservation of content.