Conceptual metadata and process metadata Max Booleman (Statistics Netherlands) WP18

How to improve dissemination (policy) and the transparency of the statistical system? – Starting point : our mission – Introduction metadata model – Dissemination policy – Coherence (and Comparability) – Transformation process of StatLine

Mission of Statistics Netherlands Core-business: dissemination of undisputed, coherent statistical information on the Dutch society. This is more than just to publish own results of the several statistical inquiries: portal function

Dissemination policy (1) – Coherent information: harmonisation and standardization of concepts & definitions models (equations, accounting systems) comparability (time, space, between concepts) – Undisputed information: consistent output, quality (reliable, timely, complete) transparency (communication with users)

Metadata model (1) (output oriented) Conceptual metadata Process metadata (Quality metadata)

Metadata model (2) Trade, 2001 Turnover *1000 euro CostsProfit Size class 19 Size class 212 total21What should be the metadata of ’21’?

Metadata model (2) Trade, 2001 Turnover *1000 euro CostsProfit Size class Size class Total21 23What should be the metadata of ’21’? Conceptual metadata Process metadata

Dissemination policy (2) – How to present inconsistent information? – Is it understandable for external users? – Is it in theory possible to publish consistent information? – Could/should we integrate every figure?

Object server enterprise establishment person household Class. servers Act. ….. textile metal transport …. Time …… Area …… Amst. Rott. …... Count Variable server Turnover empl. Cap. inv. Meas. Unit server Euro’s D.gld number meters Metadata model (3)

Purpose Statistical Co-ordination (1) Variable X Variable close to X 0-10A 11-20B >20C >30 D E F

Purpose Statistical Co-ordination (2) Variable X Variable close to X 0-10A 11-20B >20C >30 D E F

Purpose Statistical Co-ordination (3) Variable X Variable close to X 0-10A 11-20B >20C >30 D E F AG BH CI JD KE LF optional Standard classification

Why a central metadata server? Part of the new StatLine datamodel but also available for input and throughput processes The aims: – Transparency – Harmonisation, standardization – Consistency – Coherence – Efficiency – Bureau of Standards (dissemination of metadata standards)

Metadata server: process 1.Convert existing metadata from present StatLine into new model; 2.New deliveries to StatLine can only point to existing metadata; 3.New metadata can only be added via special group (SC); 4.Existing metadata will be screened (textual consistency) and combined by SC; 5.Existing metadata can be set to ‘expired’ by SC.

Statistics Netherlands is going to – have a transparent StatLine and statistical system – have a textual consistent StatLine – maximize the consistency between figures – present a clear view on dissemination policy – be recognized by external organizations as Bureau of Standards for statistical concepts Thank you