Metadata Format and Structure

Huge amount of geographical data for the HKH region has been developed that can offer a vast support to the needs of science and management. However, most of these datasets lack documentation of its technical characteristics, methodology and quality, which is extremely necessary for the future use of any dataset by the third party. The HKKH Partnership Project has developed a knowledgebase to share its bibliographic and spatial data among the partners and stakeholders. A metadata system based on FAO GeoNetwork open source has been implemented adopting ISO 19115 geospatial metadata and Dublin Core standards. Additional formats were developed for sharing image data, posters and other documents building upon earlier initiatives carried out by ICIMOD. Such web based platforms conforming to standards will greatly facilitate the process of data sharing and contribute to efficient use of GIS data. This paper summarizes ICIMODs work on metadata formats and standards within the HKKH Partnership Project initiative.