The AMD & Metadata
About the AMD
The AMD is the central directory system containing all Antarctic data set descriptions gathered by NADCs. It is hosted by the Global Change Master Directory (GCMD) of the CEOS-IDN network to minimise duplication of resources and metadata.
In addition to the AMD portal, the GCMD has an IPY portal which highlights data that have been collected over the International Polar Year.
Link to the Antarctic Master Directory
Link to the IPY portal in the AMD
Link to the GCMD
Benefits of metadata
National data directories are a useful tool for Antarctic scientists and organisations. Collecting data set descriptions is not easy; even on a national scale, it requires a strong commitment. On-going support from managers of national Antarctic programmes is required.
The benefits that access to the AMD provides to national programmes are:
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Facilitate access to data
Facilitate interdisciplinary research
Maximise the use of data
Disseminate knowledge about Antarctic scientific programs
Avoid duplication of research and data collection
Improve efficiency of Antarctic scientific data management
Facilitate new research through access to existing Antarctic scientific data
Provide a tool for support and decision making for Antarctic operators and scientists
Improve cooperation and interoperability between disciplines and Treaty nations
Allow better oversight of national programmes
The metadata standard (DIF)
All metadata should adhere to certain standards to facilitate information search and retrieval.
The IPY Data System also has a metadata profile.
The AMD host, GCMD, provides extensive information on the relevant standards:
Metadata standards and protocols
What is a DIF?
DIF writers guide
DIF keyword lists
Writing metadata: a tutorial
GCMD has provided a short tutorial on how to use docBUILDER, the metadata entry tool for the Antarctic Master Directory. If you want to add metadata to the AMD you need an account; you can contact the GCMD User Support Office (gsfc-gcmduso@mail.nasa.gov) to obtain a registration name and pass code.
AMD statistics
The GCMD maintains various statistics on the usage of the AMD.
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This graphic shows the contents (number of DIFs) by AMD Nodes as of May 31st, 2010 and the growth between May 2009 and May 2010 (click image for larger view).