What is ISO-IEC 15706-2:2021?

Introduction

ISO-IEC 15706-2:2021 is a standard that addresses the management of digital object identifiers (DOIs) in the metadata context. DOIs are unique alphanumeric strings assigned to digital objects such as articles, books, and datasets, making them easily discoverable and citable. This technical article aims to explain the key concepts and principles of ISO-IEC 15706-2:2021 in a simplified manner.

Key Features

The ISO-IEC 15706-2:2021 standard defines a set of rules and guidelines for creating and managing DOIs. It outlines the requirements for the structure and syntax of DOIs, ensuring their uniqueness and consistency across different systems.

The standard also specifies the responsibilities of different stakeholders involved in the DOI ecosystem. This includes the registration agencies that assign DOIs, the content creators who request DOIs for their digital objects, and the repositories or platforms that host these digital objects.

Another critical aspect covered by ISO-IEC 15706-2:2021 is the metadata associated with DOIs. Metadata provides descriptive information about the digital objects and enables efficient discovery and access. The standard defines a metadata schema and the required elements for describing DOIs, promoting interoperability and consistent metadata practices.

Benefits and Impact

Implementing ISO-IEC 15706-2:2021 yields several benefits both for content creators and users of digital objects. Having standardized DOIs simplifies the process of citing and referencing digital resources, enhancing the credibility and traceability of research findings.

The use of DOIs also improves discoverability and enables persistent access to digital objects. Researchers can easily locate and access the relevant resources, ensuring reliable and reproducible research outcomes.

From a management perspective, ISO-IEC 15706-2:2021 streamlines DOI registration and maintenance processes, reducing administrative overhead and ensuring data integrity. It also promotes interoperability among different DOI infrastructures and enhances resource sharing and collaboration.

Conclusion

ISO-IEC 15706-2:2021 plays a crucial role in facilitating effective DOI management within the digital ecosystem. By establishing standard guidelines for creating and managing DOIs, it improves discoverability, accessibility, and accountability of digital objects. Implementing this standard brings numerous benefits to both content creators and users, ultimately fostering scientific progress, knowledge dissemination, and innovation.