Metadata overview
Why is metadata important?
Data submitted to FEGA Sweden must be described with proper metadata. Well-described datasets are easier for other researchers to find and reuse.
FEGA Sweden uses metadata to connect submitted files to studies, samples, experiments, analyses, and datasets. Preparing this information early can reduce the amount of revision needed during the submission process.
Before you start a submission, try to collect:
- stable sample aliases and file names
- study and dataset titles and descriptions
- information that explains what each sample represents
- experiment, library preparation, and sequencing details, if relevant
- descriptions of analysis files and how they were produced, if relevant
- information about how files should be grouped into datasets
FEGA Sweden Helpdesk will help clarify policy and access-condition information with the organisation responsible for the data when needed.
The metadata model
The metadata in FEGA Sweden is divided into eight major categories (see figure below). Submitted data files are connected to either the “Runs” or the “Analysis” category. You can prepare most of the metadata before you start working on the submission itself. Well-prepared metadata will facilitate the processing of your submission later on.
Some general advice on metadata management
- Keep the metadata in a single location. Consider storing the metadata close to your data files (but in a separate folder). Make sure that files are backed up regularly so that you don’t lose important information.
- Keep your metadata files organised. Decide on one file naming convention and stick with that. Also make sure to document your metadata files. A simple README file that describes the files is normally sufficient.
- Clarify responsibilities in your team when it comes to collecting and keeping the metadata.
Where should I start?
We know that it can take time to prepare the metadata. To help you on your way, we have put together information about the metadata categories that are often the most valuable to prepare early: