How do you avoid common metadata errors and pitfalls in digital publishing?

1 Check the standards and requirements

Different platforms and formats have different metadata standards and requirements. For example, ePub files use the EPUB 3 specification, which defines the structure and elements of the metadata section. Amazon Kindle uses the KDP metadata guidelines, which specify the fields and values that you need to fill in. You should check the standards and requirements of the platforms and formats that you use, and follow them closely. This will ensure that your metadata is valid, compatible, and compliant.

2 Use relevant and specific keywords

Keywords are the words and phrases that readers use to search for your content online. They help your content match the queries and intents of your audience, and they improve your discoverability and ranking. However, keywords can also backfire if they are irrelevant, generic, or misleading. You should use keywords that accurately reflect your content, your genre, your niche, and your value proposition. You should also avoid keyword stuffing, which is the practice of using too many or unrelated keywords to manipulate search engines. Keyword stuffing can harm your reputation and ranking, and it can annoy and confuse your readers.

3 Be consistent and coherent

Consistency and coherence are essential for metadata quality and effectiveness. Consistency means that your metadata is the same across different platforms, formats, and versions. Coherence means that your metadata is logical, clear, and aligned with your content. You should avoid metadata inconsistencies and incoherencies, such as typos, spelling variations, formatting errors, missing fields, duplicate entries, contradictory information, or outdated data. You should also use tools and systems that help you manage and update your metadata efficiently and accurately.

4 Optimize for accessibility and diversity

Accessibility and diversity are important aspects of metadata that can enhance your digital publishing impact and reach. Accessibility means that your metadata is easy to access, understand, and use by people with different abilities, preferences, and devices. Diversity means that your metadata is inclusive, respectful, and representative of people with different backgrounds, identities, and perspectives. You should optimize your metadata for accessibility and diversity by using clear and simple language, following accessibility guidelines and best practices, using diverse and inclusive keywords and categories, and avoiding stereotypes and biases.

5 Test and monitor your metadata

Testing and monitoring your metadata are crucial steps to avoid errors and pitfalls, and to improve your digital publishing results. Testing means that you check your metadata before you publish or distribute your content, to ensure that it is correct, complete, and functional. Monitoring means that you track your metadata after you publish or distribute your content, to measure its performance, impact, and feedback. You should test and monitor your metadata by using tools and methods that help you validate, analyze, and optimize your metadata quality and effectiveness.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?