2. Structuring and Documenting Data for Efficient Discovery and Use

2.1 Purpose

In order to properly find, understand and use geophysical data, standardised encoding and documentation are required, i.e., metadata.

Both discovery metadata and use metadata can be embedded in the files produced for a dataset through utilisation of self-explaining file formats. If properly done by the data producer, publication and preservation of data through services is simplified and can be automated.

2.2 Implementation

An essential prerequisite for structuring and documenting data is the specification of the dataset(s), cf. ???. The dataset is the basic building block of our data management model; all the documentation and services described in this DMH are built on datasets. The dataset specification is the first step in structuring one’s data for efficient management, and it is mandatory.

2.3 Structuring and documenting data at [insert organisation here]

2.3.1 Current practice in structuring and documenting data

Table 2. Data types available at [insert institution here], with the fileformats supported. The primary fileformat is marked in bold

2.3.2 Planned developments in the near-term (< 2 years)

2.3.3 Expected evolution in the longer term (> 2 years)