An Introduction to Administrative Metadata

What is Administrative Metadata?

Administrative metadata is a specific type of metadata that carries technical details about a file or resource. It is crucial for the identification, presentation, and preservation of the resource. It encompasses information about the file's creation, quality control, rights management, access control, user requirements, and preservation. Additionally, it can provide details about the file's type, size, and licensing data.

 
• Preservation Metadata: This type of administrative metadata provides information that aids in preserving digital resources. It ensures that the original file can be distinguished from its later versions.
 
• Provenance Metadata: Provenance metadata carries information about the metadata's authority, ownership, and other related contextual information. It helps users determine the reliability of the metadata's source.
 
• Technical Metadata: Technical metadata includes necessary information about digital files for decoding and rendering them, such as the file type.
 
• Rights Metadata: Rights metadata details the intellectual property rights attached to the content.

How is Administrative Metadata Similar to Descriptive Metadata?

Administrative metadata shares similarities with descriptive metadata in that both are often added manually using special software. While administrative metadata focuses on technical information about a file or resource, descriptive metadata describes a resource for discovery and identification.

What are the Different Types of Administrative Metadata?

Administrative metadata can be categorized into various types, including preservation metadata, provenance metadata, technical metadata, and rights metadata. Each type serves a unique purpose and provides different information about the file or resource.

Why is Preservation Metadata Important?

Preservation metadata is vital as it provides information that helps preserve digital resources. It ensures that the original file can be distinguished from its later versions, which is crucial in digital preservation.

What is the Role of Provenance Metadata?

Provenance metadata plays a significant role in providing information about the metadata's authority, ownership, and other related contextual information. This information can help users determine the reliability of the metadata's source.

What does Technical Metadata Include?

Technical metadata includes necessary information about digital files that is required for decoding and rendering them. This can include details such as the file type, size, and other technical specifications.

What Information is Covered by Rights Metadata?

Rights metadata details the intellectual property rights attached to the content. It can include information about the owner of the rights, restrictions on the use of the content, and licensing details.