Once upon a time, there was a world of data where information was collected and stored in a static data catalog. This was known as passive metadata. It contained basic technical information like data types, models, and schemas. Like a personal blog, this metadata was rarely seen or used, even when people needed it. It would sit there, waiting for someone to discover it.
But then, a new kind of metadata emerged, known as active metadata. This was like a viral story that spread effortlessly and quickly across the entire data stack. It provided enriched context and information that embedded into every tool in the data stack, making it more useful and accessible.
Active metadata was more complex than passive metadata. It covered not only technical information but also operational, business, and social metadata. It sparked conversations and brought together a network of related context into a larger trend or story. This made everyone more knowledgeable and informed in the end.
Active metadata was the key to unlocking the full potential of data. It made it possible for everyone to easily access the information they needed, when they needed it. It allowed people to make better decisions, faster, and with greater confidence.
If you are organizing a large conference with hundreds of attendees and dozens of sessions. Passive metadata would be like a printed program guide that lists the speakers, topics, and schedules. It’s useful, but limited in scope and doesn’t change once it’s printed.
Active metadata, on the other hand, would be like a mobile app that updates in real-time with additional information such as speaker bios, presentation materials, and attendee feedback. It connects attendees with each other and with the content, allowing them to ask questions, share insights, and provide feedback. With active metadata, the conference becomes more engaging, interactive, and valuable for everyone involve