Linking DDI to the semantic web

The Comprehensive Extensible Data Documentation and Access Repository (CED2AR), is an online repository for metadata on surveys, administrative microdata, and other statistical information. CED2AR runs directly from DDI 2.5 through a single, non-relational database. While the DDI schema is well developed for documentation purposes, it is not ideal for semantic web applications. Using the schema.org microdata markup, CED2AR allows search engines to parse semantic information from DDI. The solution further enhances the discoverability of DDI metadata, as the data are machine readable to several providers such as Google, Yahoo and Bing. The schema.org markup is not directly embedded within the DDI, so it doesn't directly export when a user downloads a codebook. However, CED2AR can also run as a zero install desktop application. Users can simply download their own copy of CED2AR, quickly import codebooks, and instantly see the schema.org enhancements the system offers. The only prerequisites for the software is Java version 7, and an internet browser. This presentation will demonstrate the advantages schema.org adds to DDI, and the ease of deployment CED2AR allows.