Site Information

The GDDS site provides access to the detailed metadata provided by participating countries, in addition to accompanying summary tables. Metadata are descriptions of practices on data production and dissemination, and comprehensive plans for improvement of these practices. The information can be accessed from the menu by selecting either By Country or By Topic (for example, the external sector). In addition, the Customized Query facility provides metadata extracts for any combination of countries and metadata elements (for example, plans for improvement or periodicity of data). The GDDS site provides metadata on participating countries' statistical systems. Users need to refer to other sources -- essentially national statistical publications and websites -- for the actual data. The site provides detailed metadata on the coverage, timeliness, periodicity, and quality for the comprehensive statistical frameworks in Table A (click here for an example), and for specific data categories or indicators in Table B (click here for an example). Table C provides detailed metadata for participating countries on practices regarding access to and the integrity of data disseminated by national agencies. Click here for an example. In addition to detailed metadata tables, the site provides two summary tables for each participating country. Table I shows plans for improvement for each agency compiling and disseminating the data concerned. Table II shows the actual coverage, periodicity, and timeliness by data framework, category or indicator, and compares it with recommended good practice. Please see the Disclaimer for further information relevant to the metadata posted on the GDDS site.