Boost Metadata Quality with the DataCite Metadata Generator

The DataCite Metadata Generator, developed at LMU Munich (University Library and IT-Gruppe Geisteswissenschaften), is a web-based tool designed to simplify the creation, validation, and enhancement of DataCite metadata. It supports the generation of structured metadata through a user-friendly form and facilitates the reuse and improvement of existing metadata records. The updated version extends the tool's functionality by allowing users to upload existing metadata files in XML, JSON or YAML format, assess their completeness, edit records directly within the application, and download the enhanced metadata. In addition, the generator enriches metadata by connecting to external persistent identifier (PID) systems, including ORCID and ROR, retrieving associated information to improve metadata consistency and reduce manual data entry. The tool is designed with future developments in mind: its flexible architecture facilitates adaptation to new versions of the DataCite Metadata Schema without requiring major redevelopment. Furthermore, its open-source availability on GitHub enables institutions to integrate the generator into their own workflows and customize it to meet specific requirements, for example by adding institution-specific metadata fields. These slides were presented at PIDfest 2026, held in Leiden, the Netherlands, from October 27 to 29, 2026.