Dataen

Dataen is a hypothetical data encoding and interchange framework that appears in theoretical discussions about data interoperability. In these contexts, dataen is described as a minimal, extensible model for representing structured data along with rich metadata, with goals of enabling validation, schema evolution, and consistent data transmission across heterogeneous systems.

The dataen model centers on datasets, each containing records composed of fields with typed values. A dataset carries metadata that describes provenance, schema version, validation rules, and access controls. Schemas in dataen are designed to evolve incrementally so older records remain readable while newer fields are introduced.

Text-based representations of dataen resemble human-readable formats, combining a schema section with a data section. Validators enforce conformance to the declared schema, and a dataen document may embed both data and metadata in a single payload. Some proposals also describe a compact binary form for high-volume transmission.

Compared with standard formats such as JSON or XML, dataen emphasizes built-in schema and metadata integration, whereas formats like JSON often separate data from metadata. Proponents argue that dataen can improve data quality and traceability, but it remains experimental and not widely adopted.

Dataen originated in scholarly and educational discussions about interoperability and is not an official standard. There is no formal specification universally recognized, and real-world implementations are limited to prototype projects, demonstrations, or pedagogical materials illustrating data governance, schema versioning, and data validation concepts.

See also: JSON, XML, YAML, CSV, Parquet, JSON-LD, data modeling, data governance.