Andmekoguks

Andmekoguks is the term used in Estonian for a data repository—a system, service, or collection where data assets are stored, organized, and preserved to enable discovery and access over time. A data repository typically combines data storage with a metadata catalog, search interfaces, and governance mechanisms that control who may access the data, under what conditions, and for how long.

Repositories may be institutional (hosted by universities or research organizations), subject-specific (focusing on a particular field), or national/open-data portals that aggregate datasets from multiple sources. Data stored may include structured datasets, binary files, software, and documentation. Metadata ensures discoverability and interoperability; common standards include Dublin Core, DataCite, and discipline-specific schemas. Data formats: CSV, JSON, XML, NetCDF, etc.

Access and licensing: Data can be open or restricted; licenses clarify reuse rights. Preservation and versioning: Repositories implement backup, replication, checksums, and version control to ensure long-term usability. Interoperability and access: APIs, persistent identifiers (DOIs, handles), and interoperability with other systems like data catalogs.

Governance: policies for data stewardship, privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR), ethics approvals, and provenance. In practice, andmekoguks support research, policy making, and innovation by enabling data reuse, reproducibility, and transparency.