Enhancing the Efficiency and Effectiveness of the Electronic Theses and Dissertations (ETDs) Metadata Lifecycle: A Framework for Best Practice

Abstract

Electronic Theses and Dissertations (ETDs) have become a valuable resource for scholarly research and academic institutions. Efficient management of ETD metadata is crucial for facilitating discovery, retrieval, and long-term preservation of these scholarly works. This paper presents a framework for best practices aimed at enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the ETDs metadata lifecycle. The framework encompasses key stages, including metadata creation, quality assurance, standardization, interoperability, and long-term preservation. By implementing these best practices, academic institutions can ensure that ETDs are accurately described, easily discoverable, and accessible to the research community, thereby maximizing the impact and value of these scholarly contributions. However, managing the metadata associated with ETDs can be challenging and inefficient, leading to difficulties in discovery, access, and long-term preservation. This study aims to develop a comprehensive framework for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the ETDs metadata lifecycle through the establishment of best practices.