Envisioning Metadata
Jenn Riley of the Indiana University Libraries has released an intriguing graphic entitled "Seeing Standards: a Visualization of the Metadata Universe."
The image not only identifies and classifies 105 standards - it also evaluates them on "strength of application" in multiple axes. This judgment is based on level of adoption, design intent, and overall appropriateness. Outside of the massive labor that the research and analysis must have taken, the visual presentation is stunning. The work of Devin Becker on the graphic design should be commended.
The graphic is a useful addition to the literature and an excellent way to brush up on some standards in unfamiliar domains. The timing is excellent as well, as the American Library Association Annual Conference this week kicks off a season of acronym-filled meetings.
