A data model of theses and dissertations compatible with CERIF, Dublin Core and EDT-MS

Abstract

Purpose - The aim of this research is to define a data model of theses and dissertations that enables data exchange with CERIF-compatible CRIS systems and data exchange according to OAI-PMH protocol in different metadata formats (Dublin Core, EDT-MS, etc.). Design/methodology/approach - Various systems that contain metadata about theses and dissertations are analyzed. There are different standards and protocols that enable the interoperability of those systems: CERIF standard, AOI-PMH protocol, etc. A physical data model that enables interoperability with almost all of those systems is created using the PowerDesigner CASE tool. Findings - A set of metadata about theses and dissertations that contain all the metadata required by CERIF data model, Dublin Core format, EDT-MS format and all the metadata prescribed by the University of Novi Sad is defined. Defined metadata can be stored in the CERIF-compatible data model based on the MARC21 format. Practical implications - CRIS-UNS is a CRIS which has been developed at the University of Novi Sad since 2008. The system is based on the proposed data model, which enables the system's interoperability with other CERIF-compatible CRIS systems. Also, the system based on the proposed model can become a member of NDLTD. Social implications - A system based on the proposed model increases the availability of theses and dissertations, and thus encourages the development of the knowledge-based society. Originality/value - A data model of theses and dissertations that enables interoperability with CERIF-compatible CRIS systems is proposed. A software system based on the proposed model could become a member of NDLTD and exchange metadata with institutional repositories. The proposed model increases the availability of theses and dissertations. Copyright © 2012 Emerald Group Publishing Limited. All rights reserved.