The Dublin Core Metadata Initiative (DCMI) is a standard for describing digital resources, making it easier to find and manage information on the web. It consists of a set of 15 core elements, such as title, creator, and date, which can be used to provide essential details about a resource. DCMI promotes the use of metadata to improve resource discovery and interoperability across different systems. It supports various applications, including libraries, museums, and educational institutions, by providing a common framework for sharing and organizing information effectively.