Tools for assessing EML data package quality

Since 2009, the LTER Information Managers Committee (IMC) has been developing a system of quality standards for EML data packages to assure that PASTA-components of the LTER Network Information System (NIS) are of high quality. Work began with small groups outlining essential data package features at annual IMC meetings and in ad hoc video teleconferences. Definitions of quality "checks" for features important for automated use were refined and associated with milestones of PASTA development by an IMC working group closely associated with PASTA developers, Tiger Teams, and NCEAS ecoinformatics programmers. The work is also closely aligned with existing recommendations for EML construction ("Best Practices"), and is guided by current patterns of EML construction. In a 2012 workshop, the Version 1.0 list and requirements for code behavior were completed. The working group also outlined a proposed process for implementing new or modified quality checks and a web interface for data package evaluation. In both 2011 and 2012, preliminary code was used to develop draft reports for available LTER data packages, and these reports were shared internally. The IMC has been kept appraised of progress in written reports, regular video teleconferences, and in individual discussions with site information managers as part of their preparation for data contributions to PASTA.