An ecosystem for producing and sharing metadata within the web of FAIR Data

Abstract

Background: Descriptive metadata are vital for reporting, discovering, leveraging, and mobilizing research datasets. However, resolving metadata issues as part of a data management plan can be complex for data producers. To organize and document data, various descriptive metadata must be created. Furthermore, when sharing data, it is important to ensure metadata interoperability in line with FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) principles. Given the practical nature of these challenges, there is a need for management tools that can assist data managers effectively. Additionally, these tools should meet the needs of data producers and be user-friendly, requiring minimal training. Results: We developed Maggot (Metadata Aggregation on Data Storage), a web-based tool to locally manage a data catalog using high-level metadata. The main goal was to facilitate easy data dissemination and deposition in data repositories. With Maggot, users can easily generate and attach high-level metadata to datasets, allowing for seamless sharing in a collaborative environment. This approach aligns with many data management plans as it effectively addresses challenges related to data organization, documentation, storage, and the sharing of metadata based on FAIR principles within and beyond the collaborative group. Furthermore, Maggot enables metadata crosswalks (i.e., generated metadata can be converted to the schema used by a specific data repository or be exported using a format suitable for data collection by third-party applications). Conclusion: The primary purpose of Maggot is to streamline the collection of high-level metadata using carefully chosen schemas and standards. Additionally, it simplifies data accessibility via metadata, typically a requirement for publicly funded projects. As a result, Maggot can be utilized to promote effective local management with the goal of facilitating data sharing while adhering to the FAIR principles. Furthermore, it can contribute to the preparation of the future EOSC FAIR Web of Data within the European Open Science Cloud framework.