A data catalog is a service that enables users to access useful information, regardless of the format or origin of the data. It may include data reports, APIs, and metadata.

Metadata provides information about the structure, value, and origin of a record. This helps people discover, create, and manage records. Increasing the volume and diversity of data can increase the roles of metadata managers.

A data catalog uses metadata to build an inventory of data assets. The catalog examines data sources in context, based on their similarity, and determines how to best index the data.

Data catalogs are used by both business and technical teams. Business teams often include analysts, scientists, and product specialists. Technical teams are made up of engineers and data type experts.

Data catalogs can help maintain consistent, organization-wide data definitions. In addition, the metadata in a catalog can be used to establish relationships between data, terms, and physical assets. These connections are recorded as records, and then transferred to a design and test repository.

Modern data catalogs are designed to accommodate a wide variety of users. They enable granular, enforceable governance, and offer an integrated access layer. By allowing for greater transparency and democratic access, data catalogs allow businesses to collaborate and improve their data management.

Collibra Data Catalog is a cloud-native metadata management platform that lets business and technical users explore, analyze, and collaborate on the data that underpins their organizations. This solution is built on open source technology and supports natural language search, machine learning, and collaboration.