Overview
ISO/IEC 11179-4:2004 - "Information technology - Metadata registries (MDR) - Part 4: Formulation of data definitions" defines requirements and recommendations for constructing clear, unambiguous semantic definitions for data and metadata. The standard addresses the meaning (semantic aspects) of definitions used in metadata registries and related environments, and is especially applicable to ISO/IEC 11179‑3 registry content. It applies broadly to data elements and other metadata constructs such as entity types, relationships, attributes, classes, code entries, and the data named by XML tags.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope & focus: Semantic formulation of data definitions; formatting is intentionally out of scope.
- Core requirements (must-haves):
- Definitions stated in the singular (unless the concept is inherently plural).
- State what the concept is, not merely what it is not.
- Use a descriptive phrase or complete sentence(s) rather than synonyms or restatements.
- Only commonly understood abbreviations; expand acronyms at first occurrence.
- Avoid embedding definitions of other data or underlying concepts.
- Recommendations (best practices):
- State the essential meaning of the concept.
- Be precise, unambiguous, concise, and able to stand alone.
- Avoid rationale, usage, procedural information, and circular definitions.
- Use consistent terminology and logical structure across related definitions.
- Ensure definitions are appropriate to the metadata item type (e.g., data element vs. code entry).
- Terminology alignment: Relates to conceptual domains, value domains, data element concepts, and metadata items as defined in ISO/IEC 11179‑3 and ISO vocabularies.
Practical applications and users
ISO/IEC 11179-4:2004 is used to improve data quality, interoperability, and shared understanding across systems and organizations by standardizing how data is defined. Typical uses include:
- Building or populating a metadata registry (MDR) with well-formed data element definitions.
- Defining data dictionaries, code lists, XML tag semantics, and value domains for system integration.
- Supporting data governance, data stewardship, and enterprise information architecture through consistent definitions.
- Enabling data sharing and system integration by reducing ambiguity in data semantics.
Primary users:
- Data stewards, metadata registry administrators, and information architects
- System integrators and software developers working with shared data models
- Standards bodies and project teams implementing ISO/IEC 11179 series guidance
Related standards
- ISO/IEC 11179 series: Part 1 (Framework), Part 3 (Registry metamodel and basic attributes), Part 5 (Naming and identification principles), Part 6 (Registration).
- ISO 704 (terminology work) - referenced for relationships between concepts.
By following ISO/IEC 11179-4:2004, organizations can create precise, reusable data definitions that enhance metadata registries, data governance, and interoperable information systems.
