Map metadata provides critical details about a map, making it understandable and easy to find. According to the reference, metadata provide essential information for the identification and the comprehension of the map. They also make the map more easily retrievable through search tools.
Think of metadata as the "about" information for your map. Just like a book has metadata (title, author, publisher, ISBN), a map needs information describing what it is, who created it, when it was created, and how it can be used.
Why is Map Metadata Important?
Metadata serves several key functions:
- Identification: It tells you exactly what the map represents (e.g., geographic area, theme).
- Comprehension: It provides context, explaining symbols, data sources, projection, and other details needed to correctly interpret the map's content.
- Retrievability: Good metadata includes keywords and descriptions that allow users to find the map using search engines or internal data catalogs. The reference highlights this by stating metadata makes the map "more easily retrievable through the search tools."
What Information Does Map Metadata Include?
While specific fields vary, common map metadata elements include:
- Title and Description
- Creator/Author
- Publication Date or Creation Date
- Geographic Extent (area covered)
- Data Sources used
- Projection Information
- Keywords or Tags
- Usage Constraints or Licensing
How is Map Metadata Created?
Creating map metadata often involves a structured process. The reference mentions that metadata can be filled out through three-steps in which you have to provide all mandatory information to complete the process. This suggests a defined workflow, often within mapping software or data management systems, where required fields ensure comprehensive documentation.
Completing all mandatory information is crucial for ensuring the metadata is useful for discovery and understanding.
Practical Examples
Imagine you find a digital map file simply named "map.png". Without metadata, you wouldn't know:
- What area it shows?
- Is it a map of current conditions or historical data?
- Where did the data come from?
- Can you share or modify it?
With metadata, however, you might see:
- Title: Population Density of London, 2020
- Creator: Office for National Statistics
- Date: 2021-05-10
- Keywords: London, Population, Demographics, Census
- Source: 2020 London Estimates
- Usage: Open Government License
This metadata immediately provides the "essential information for the identification and the comprehension of the map," and helps you find it when searching for "London population map".
Metadata Standards
To ensure consistency and interoperability, map metadata often adheres to established standards (e.g., ISO 19115 for geographic information). Using standards helps different systems and users understand and utilize the metadata effectively.
In summary, map metadata is the descriptive information attached to a map that explains its content, origin, and characteristics, making it identifiable, understandable, and searchable.
