Metadata Recommendations for Geodetic data: GNSS

Data publications with digital object identifiers (DOI) are key supporting elements for Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Reusable (FAIR) data (Wilkinson et al. 2016). DOIs were originally developed to provide permanent access to static datasets described in scholarly literature. Currently, they are increasingly being used for both static and dynamic data. DOIs are providing globally unique, persistent and resolvable references of various types of sources (data, software, samples, equipment) and means of rewarding the originators and institutions (through citation). This is important for geodesy, as researchers rely on observational data and operational aspects. Geodetic equipment, observational data and results require a documented mechanism for citation, scientific recognition and reward that can be provided by assigning a DOI. To address these challenges and identify opportunities for improved coordination and advocacy within the geodetic community, GGOS established a Working Group on 'Digital Object Identifiers (DOIs) for Geodetic Datasets' in 2019, transforming it into a GGOS Committee in 2023. This Committee is designated to establish best practices and advocate for the consistent implementation of DOIs across all IAG Services and in the greater geodetic community. This document presents the GGOS DOI Committee's first set of recommendations for DOI metadata for geodetic data. These recommendations have been developed for GNSS data and include specific guidance on different GNSS data products. However, many sections of this document are not specific to GNSS data and may also be applicable to other geodetic data.