Metadata can be created in many ways, using various metadata tools, standards, and schemas. Determining the most useful method for creating metadata varies from project to project and should be a part of your research plan early on. It may be helpful to consider the methods that others in your field typically use when deciding which is best for your project. You may be expected to enter metadata in a form when submitting materials for publication or depositing them in a repository, so it is beneficial to anticipate those metadata requirements while collecting data throughout your research process.  

Some ways of creating metadata include spreadsheets, databases, and encoded documents (e.g., XML, HTML, JSON). Content management systems (CMS) and Digital asset management systems (DAMs) may include tools for creating forms for metadata entry.   

Finally, it is a good practice to create rich metadata that can be transformed easily to meet the needs of the various systems that store metadata, which have different requirements. The more, the better; the richer, the more flexible.   

The Library’s Metadata and Discovery Unit provides metadata advice and support.  To ask a question, set up a consultation, or learn more about our services, contact us.