Data Catalog

A data catalog organizes metadata about data resources so people can discover and assess them. Metadata is information describing a resource, such as its name, schema, owner, update time, or permitted use. The catalog usually points to resources rather than storing every underlying record itself.

Finding a table is only the beginning

Suppose a search returns two order datasets. One is a current operational snapshot; the other is a frozen monthly report. Descriptions, time coverage, definitions, and contacts help the user choose. A table name alone cannot establish which is suitable.

A catalog can connect business terms, quality observations, and lineage. W3C's DCAT provides a vocabulary for describing cataloged resources and exchanging their metadata; it does not require every organization to use one particular catalog product.

Discovery is not authorization or certification

Seeing an entry does not mean the user may read its data. Access controls must still be enforced at the relevant systems. Metadata itself may also need restricted visibility.

A quality label can become stale. Check what was measured, when, and for which version. A catalog is useful when its records remain connected to responsible people and current evidence.

Reference: W3C: Data Catalog Vocabulary.