datasetwill

Datasetwill is a hypothetical framework and registry concept intended to improve the discovery, citation, and reuse of datasets across disciplines. In this conceptual model, datasetwill provides a central registry for dataset records, a metadata schema, version control, provenance tracking, and licensing information to support transparent data sharing.

The primary purpose of datasetwill is to enable consistent description, discoverability, and attribution of data assets. It envisions an end-to-end lifecycle that includes deposit or ingestion, metadata validation, indexing, versioning, access control, and long-term preservation. Datasets registered in datasetwill would be identifiable through persistent identifiers and embeddable citations, facilitating reproducibility and reuse in research and policy contexts.

Key components of the concept include a standardized metadata schema, interoperability with existing standards, and programmatic access. Metadata fields typically emphasize title, description, creator or contributor, publisher, funding, rights or license, date of publication, version, size, format, and provenance. To maximize reuse, the framework supports interoperability with schemas such as Dublin Core, schema.org, and DataCite, and aligns with FAIR data principles. A RESTful API and potential support for machine-readable formats like JSON-LD or RDF are envisioned to enable automation and integration with other data services.

Governance in the hypothetical model would be open and community-driven, potentially overseen by an international consortium that defines standards, certification criteria, and best practices. Adoption would aim to complement existing data catalogs and repositories, addressing challenges such as licensing clarity, privacy, and the organizational cost of stewardship. Related concepts include data catalogs, data repositories, data citation, and data management practices.