Strategic Plan for RDA 2020-2022

RDA: a global standard enabling discovery of content

RDA: Resource Description and Access is a package of data elements, guidelines, and instructions for creating library and cultural heritage metadata that are well-formed according to international models.
These metadata are intended to support the discovery and identification of resources in library and other cultural heritage collections.

1. Develop RDA as a responsive and dynamic standard

   The RDA Board and RDA Steering Committee (RSC) are committed to develop and maintain RDA as a modern and relevant international standard for resource description and to foster an environment which builds confidence for users and potential users. We also ensure that there is a clear maintenance program for ongoing and timely revisions of the standard.

   We will:

   1. Continue to develop RDA as a principles-based standard
   2. Ensure a clear maintenance program for ongoing and timely revisions of the standard
   3. Communicate about changes to the standard and the Toolkit and address development issues as they arise

2. Increase the adoption of RDA

   To help realize RDA’s potential, the Board and RSC will work together to explore how the standard can be adopted, used and developed by data communities. We will identify new and potential markets and create strategies for reaching and engaging with these.

   We will:

   1. Identify gaps in the regions and identify contacts in the regions where there are gaps
   2. Support the development of new RDA regional representative bodies
   3. Engage with communities to improve the applicability of RDA (e.g., language, sector, specialized resources)

3. Provide relevant governance

   To facilitate the development and adoption of the standard, the governance structure will be reviewed and revised to ensure that it supports the RDA vision and strategic direction.

   We will:

   1. Develop policies, procedures and practices appropriate for a global standard with representation from all parts of the world
   2. Review the governance model regularly
   3. Promote active representation from all regions