What role does metadata play in data management?
Metadata plays a crucial role in data management by providing context and information about the actual data being stored. It describes attributes such as data origin, format, and creation date, allowing for easier data discovery and retrieval. Metadata enhances data governance by defining access permissions and data lineage, ensuring compliance with regulations. By organizing vast datasets, metadata enables efficient storage and retrieval processes, improving overall data quality. Moreover, it aids in data integration efforts across systems, supporting analytics initiatives by providing clarity on how data can be used effectively.