1.1 This specification covers the information content of metadata for a set of digital geospatial data. This specification provides a common set of terminology and definitions for concepts related to these metadata.

1.2 The use of the term "geographic information system" and its definition in this specification is not intended to introduce a standard definition.

1.3 This specification covers minimum content and processing requirements for geospatial metadata.

1.4 There are at least three categories of use for geospatial metadata: (1) to accompany data transfers as documentation, (2) internal, on-line documentation of processing steps and data lineage, and (3) as stand-alone data set synopses for use by spatial data catalogs, indexes, and referral services.