Metadata Management Matters.. Like really matters.

Photo by Jan Antonin Kolar on Unsplash

The concept of metadata is pretty straightforward, really. It’s just “data about data.” But don’t let the simplicity fool you – metadata is the key to unlocking the full potential of your data assets. Yet, in my experience, many organizations treat it like an afterthought.

Here’s the thing: while most businesses focus on the data itself, it’s the metadata that tells you what that data actually means, where it came from, and how it’s evolved. It’s like trying to bake a cake without a recipe – you might have all the ingredients (your data), but without the instructions (your metadata), you’re left guessing and hoping it all comes together.

Now, just like with data governance overall, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to metadata management. Sure, there are common elements you can borrow, but copying a solution straight off the shelf is risky. What works for one business might not work for another. Metadata management, when done right, can transform how your organization understands and leverages data, but only if you shape it to fit your specific needs.

What is Metadata for Management?

So, what exactly is metadata management? In simple terms, it’s the process of organizing and governing the information about your data. It’s not just about keeping track of…