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Dataverse Schema

A Dataverse collection is a container for datasets (research data, code, documentation, and metadata) and other Dataverse collections, which can be set up for individual researchers, departments, journals, and organizations.

Figure 1: Dataverse schema. Source: https://guides.dataverse.org/en/6.4/user/dataverse-management.html

Once a user creates a Dataverse collection, they, by default, become the administrator of that Dataverse collection. The Dataverse collection administrator has access to manage the settings described in this guide.

Concepts

  • Dataverse Collection: A container or folder within a Dataverse instance that organizes datasets. Collections can be customized by their creator and may represent a research group, a project, or a topic. Collections can contain datasets or other nested collections.

  • Dataset: A structured unit within a Dataverse collection that holds research data files and metadata. Each dataset represents a distinct research output, such as a study, experiment, or project, and is described using metadata for discoverability.

  • Metadata: Descriptive information about a dataset, including details like the title, author, keywords, abstract, and subject. Metadata helps users understand and find datasets.

  • Roles: Assigned responsibilities within a Dataverse instance, such as administrator, curator, or contributor. Roles determine what actions a user can perform on collections and datasets.