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A data dictionary specifies the data elements and allowed values of all declared DOI metadata. This data dictionary is defined through the DOI Kernel Schema (see DOI Kernel Schema).

Terms will be added to the dictionary at the request of any Registration Agency (RA): see Data Model Extension and Maintenance.

Users need not understand the underlying concepts and construction of the data dictionary in order to make use of it. Key features of the dictionary are:

•The dictionary is extensible to whatever level of detail and granularity is required.

•The dictionary is neutral as to business model.

•The dictionary is independent of any implementation technology.

•The dictionary allows use of any existing metadata scheme.

•Multiple, different, specialized views can be made available.

•Local terms can be included.
An RA can add all their own local data elements and names into the ontology, and use only those terms they need.

•The dictionary can include different terms from different internal systems and map them together.

•The dictionary incorporates external and standard schemes such ISO territory, currency and language codes, and sector specific external schemes, allowing them to be treated seamlessly alongside local terms.

•Any public terms are accessible to all RAs.

NOTE  The data dictionary was previously specified through the DOI Data Dictionary file which is no longer actively updated. The last update of the DOI Data Dictionary was in 2015 and can be found on the DOI web site.