Metadata for the European Statistical System Marco Pellegrino Eurostat Directorate A, Statistical Information System, ... Unit A-3, Reference data bases marco.pellegrino@cec.eu.int
Metadata for the European Statistical System Metadata (information on data and about processes of producing and using data): a long-discussed topic. Why do users need metadata? - Assistance in the search for data - Help to understand meaning and limitations - Help to assess reliability/quality of the data Task-forces, projects and...reality
Metadata for the European Statistical System Weak points: Artificial dichotomy between IT and Statistics Insufficient communication and cooperation Insufficient coordination between national and international activities Challenges: Growing expectations for Euro-zone and EU official statistics Agreed standards for exchange and dissemination Agreed priorities?
Metadata Workshop (14-15 February 2000) 23 NSIs and 5 International organisations Three broad priorities for action: Networks of experts Harmonisation of metadata content requirements (coordination) Use of existing metadata standards and tools
EUROSTAT’s homework Coordination within Eurostat: - on-going projects and activities - metadata items for dissemination, reference, production - specific content requirements by domain - training and workshops Production of harmonised metadata in conformity with agreed standards (eg. Euro-SICS)
CIRCA Interest Group on “Statistical Metadata” http://forum.europa.eu.int/Public/irc/dsis/metadata/home marco.pellegrino@cec.eu.int