Data Glossary
The Queen's Data Glossary is the single reference point that documents the consistent meaning of data shared among different systems of information, faculties, departments, and units.
The purpose of a university-wide data glossary is to capture the full meaning, nuances, and context of each datum used for reporting, analytics, and decision-making.
The data glossary will build a shared understanding with clear definitions and other “data about data,” allowing for accuracy and consistency of reports using the data. It will also improve efficiency by clarifying ambiguous meanings, reducing duplication, and documenting business rules. Data will become useful for more than just the users of a system or the persons who created the data, and will empower people to engage with data, improving overall data literacy.
A clear understanding of data will support better reporting, planning, and decision-making while also enabling integration of data across systems. This will enable us to build a foundation for advanced analytics and the use of data for AI use cases.
A university-wide project is currently underway for defining, describing and agreeing upon the critical data terms used across our institution. There will be more information posted on this page as we finalize definitions, use-cases and metadata for Glossary term.
Data Glossary Process
Draft and Review
Data Stewards working with the Data Strategy and Governance team will identify terms and draft proposed definitions, relevant notes and examples of use across the Queen’s. A dedicated review period with engagement meetings will allow Data Users to provide feedback or suggest edits.
This initiative is currently underway; more details will be shared soon.
Finalization
Feedback will be integrated, and a decision will be reached on one authoritative definition. The approved term will be published and made available for reference.
Maintenance
Definitions will be regularly revisited to ensure they remain current. The system where definitions are published will also provide version history and change logs for transparency. Processes are being developed to ensure that new terms can be proposed, and existing terms can be updated or retired.
Get Involved
Have questions or feedback? Want to request a new definition?
Reach out to dsgo@queensu.ca.