Embedded Metadata: Friend or Foe to Our Digital Collections?

Abstract

This paper examines the emerging trend of embedded metadata and its reported advantages and disadvantages in regards to digital preservation and digital asset management. Some are hailing embedded metadata as a boon while others feel it is unstable and leads to data corruption. As a result, the use of embedded metadata is far from widely accepted or standardized due to the valid points from each side of this argument. However, various working groups across professions and industries are collaborating and exploring the value and reliability of embedded metadata to improve its interoperability and increase its chances of becoming a best practice of digital preservation.