A Metadata Framework for Asset Management Decision Support: A Water Infrastructure Case Study

Abstract

A water utility requires myriads of data for effective decision-making. As the sources and ranges of data are becoming increasingly complex, the use of a metadata framework can play a significant role in effective data management. Using case study method, this research analyzed data needs of a water supply system in a small town in South Australia and designed a demo portal of a metadata framework. As part of the case study, the project team undertook a broad investigative approach using focus group (interviews), observation, exploration of potential data sources, identification of knowledge leaders and information technology systems. The metadata framework comprised two separate but interconnected metadata groups, (1) metadata elements to describe the metadata source and (2) metadata elements to describe the datasets held in each data source. The metadata framework was populated to describe data sources and data held in each of the sources. The data catalogue created by this process showed that it was accomplishable and appropriate to describe data sources and datasets via a metadata framework.