Metadata is often described as data about data - when good metadata is available it makes finding and working with data easier.
While users may get some basic information if a label is provided to describe data, they will get a more in-depth understanding of the context and provenance of data when presented with more detailed metadata. Examples of detailed
metadata
includes information on definitions used, descriptions of response options and code lists together with guidance on which questions to ask to get the best answer, which formats to use etc.
The aim of this portal is to help users to better understand the data that CSO and other government offices produce though the promotion and use of high quality metadata. The use of common metadata also facilitates the harmonisation and
comparability of data while also improving the quality and consistency of information across the Irish Public and Civil Service.
The portal is split into two components:
- A CSO Data Standards Portal which contains standard metadata packages for a number of key statistical concepts
- A CSO Metadata Portal which contains the background metadata that is used in the production of key CSO products
