Metadata and RDMC workflows

Within the RDMC, metadata forms the backbone of the manifest file for each container. It provides structured, detailed, and reliable information about the container’s contents, which may include research papers, datasets, and digital artifact, all of which appropriate levels of security, privacy, and authenticated access.

For researchers and data creators, accurate metadata ensures that:

• Their research objects are securely stored and correctly represented in the containerization process.

• Their outputs can be reused and reproduced in different environments, especially when artifact are treated as unique workflows that must be preserved and executed.

• Their contributions are recognized and credited, with metadata supporting licensing, citation formats and versioning.

Metadata created by researchers and embedded in the RDMC manifest also serves as a practical guide for best practices, aligning with the FAIR principles. It documents relationships between resources, identifies appropriate formats, and establishes minimum standards for data and software management.

The benefits of rich metadata for researchers include:

• Enhanced publication quality

• Long-term accessibility of research objects

• Well-defined data and software management plans

By providing accurate and comprehensive metadata, researchers enable RDMC managers, owners and other users to efficiently manage the services and contents of the container.