Metadata standards are guidelines that help organize and describe data in a consistent way. They define how information about data, such as its source, format, and purpose, should be structured. This consistency makes it easier for people and systems to find, share, and use data effectively. For example, the Dublin Core standard is widely used for describing digital resources like websites and documents. By following metadata standards, organizations can improve data management and interoperability. This means that different systems can work together more smoothly, allowing users to access and understand data from various sources. Standards like ISO 19115 for geographic information ensure that users can trust the quality and context of the data they are using.