About data and metadata reference standards
The Chief Information Officer of Canada issues data and metadata reference standards to make sure Government of Canada data is presented consistently in all systems and datasets.
For a list of these standards, visit the Inventory of data and metadata reference standards.
On this page
Context
Data and metadata reference standards set out how Government of Canada (GC) data must be presented so that terminology, codes, values, formats and fields are consistent.
Presenting data in a consistent way improves data quality and helps make data more findable, accessible, interoperable and reusable. In turn, it reduces redundancies and inaccuracies and helps the GC:
- streamline processes
- share data effectively
- make decisions based on strong evidence
- provide better services
- reduce costs
Data and metadata reference standards support priorities set out in the following:
- Policy on Service and Digital
- 2023–2026 Data Strategy for the Federal Public Service
- Digital Ambition
- Digital Standards Playbook
- Disaggregated Data Action Plan
- Integrated Strategy for Human Resources and Pay
Data and metadata reference standards are issued under Appendix K of the Directive on Service and Digital. Departments described in section 6 of the directive must apply these standards in their systems and datasets.
Development process
Data and metadata reference standards are developed by GC departments in collaboration with the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat (TBS). Departments bring expertise gained from working with regional, national and international data communities on different subjects.
Employees can propose a data or metadata reference standard by submitting an intake form to TBS.
If TBS determines that the proposed standard is fit for use across the GC, it is presented to the following groups for review (links will only open on the GC network):
- Data Architecture and Reference Data Management Working Group
- Chief Data Officer Council Sub-Committee on Data Standards
- Chief Data Officer Council
- Assistant Deputy Minister Council on Data and Information
After those groups have approved the proposed standard, it is submitted to the Chief Information Officer of Canada for approval.
For details on the steps involved in developing data and metadata reference standards, see the GC Enterprise Endorsement Process for CPDI Products on the Community of Practice on Data and Information page on GCXchange.
Get involved
If you’re a federal public servant and would like to get involved in discussions about data and metadata reference standards, join the Data Architecture and Reference Data Management Working Group on GCXchange (available only on the GC network).
Contact
For more information about data and metadata reference standards and for help interpreting their requirements, contact ServiceDigital-ServicesNumerique@tbs-sct.gc.ca.
Related links
For more guidance on how to effectively manage information and data in your organization, visit the GC information and data governance page.