Introduction: Handbook on metadata for MDGs

Jessica Gardner, UNECE ConsultantJessica Gardner, UNECE Consultant

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UNECE publication on metadata for MDGs

� Good practice guidelines

� 70+ page publication� First draft complete

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� First draft complete� Feedback from this

meeting� Final version

available second half of this year

Why metadata and MDGs?

� Metadata essential for understanding MDGs�Multiple sources of data

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�MDG-related data goes to a wide audience

� Limited existing guidance� Current practices often lack key metadata� Opportunity to strengthen capacity in a

strategic area

What is metadata?

“Metadata is data that defines or describes

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defines or describes other data”

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Often lacking in MDG reports:�Primary source of data�Definitions�Population

Existing metadata guidelines7

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Producing and managing metadataGeneric Statistical Business Process Model9

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Benefits of good metadata management

� Increase data quality � Use latest classifications

and definitions� Increase productivity

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� Increase productivity� Increase staff morale� Encourage correct

interpretation and use� Increase trust in official

statistics

Transparency of official statisticsFundamental Principle of Official Statistics No. 3:

“To facilitate a correct interpretation of the data…

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interpretation of the data…present information… on the sources, methods and procedures of the statistics.”

Core principles for metadata

� Capture metadata at the source

� One entry / update� Version control

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� Version control� Availability� …

“Statistical metadata systems play a fundamental role in statistical organizations.

Such systems comprise the Such systems comprise the people, processes and technology used to manage statistical metadata.”

Statistical Metadata in a Corporate Context: A guide for managers (UNECE, 2009c)

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Core metadata

� Clear title – what, where and when

� Labels– complete and understandable

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– complete and understandable� Footnotes

– provide detail� Source of the data

– the primary source

What

Where When

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Different audiences, different level of detail

Source: Progress towards the realization of the Millennium Development Goals in Bosnia and Herzegovina 2010

(Bosnia and Herzegovina Ministry of Finance and Treasury and United Nations Country Team in Bosnia and Herzegovina) 20

Data Metadata

Together in one product

Striking a balance21

Data Cor

e m

etad

ata

Together in one product

Detailed metadata

Another product

Impact of technology22

Metadata is displayed both on

screen and included when data

is downloaded as a spread sheet

Source: UNECE Statistical Database, w3.unece.org/pxweb23

Guide for data users24

Guidelines for statisticians

� Correct presentation� Consistent

presentation� Templates

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� Templates� Processes to

validate and format

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What metadata for MDG reporting?

� Definition� Goal and target addressed� Rationale� Method of computation� Data collection and source

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� Data collection and source� Periodicity of

measurement� Gender issues� Disaggregation issues� Comments and limitations� References and

international data comparisons

Recommended metadata for MDGsMinimum metadata1. Title 2. Labels3. Footnotes

Optimum metadata5. Quality6. Responsible

agency

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3. Footnotes4. Primary data

source(s)

agency

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National statistical systems

1. Develop presentation guidelines

2. Use common terminology

3. Develop metadata management systems

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Develop metadata management systems

International agencies

1. Agree on international standards for MDG metadata presentation

2. Emphasise the importance of good metadata

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3. Develop national capacity in metadata management and presentation

Questions for discussion

� Does your agency have a metadata management strategy?

� Do you agree with the main recommendations for improving MDG-related metadata?

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for improving MDG-related metadata?� What are the main challenges you face in

reporting and managing MDG-related metadata?