Frequently asked questions about the Dataset Register by dataset users at heritage institutions and aggregators

Which datasets does the Dataset Register make available?

The Dataset Register makes no datasets available. Data sets (in the form of data dump or APIs) are stored at the source (= the heritage institution) or on an open data platform that the heritage institution uses.

The Dataset Register provides URIs of dataset descriptions based on search queries. These dataset descriptions contain references to the datasets.

Which dataset descriptions does the Dataset Register make available?

The Dataset Register makes no dataset descriptions available. Dataset descriptions are available at the source (= the heritage institution) or on an open data platform that the heritage institution uses.

OK, the Dataset Register does contain dataset descriptions, but this is purely as a cache and to efficiently search the dataset descriptions. The Dataset Register provides URIs of dataset descriptions at the source on the basis of queries.

How can I search the dataset descriptions?

The dataset descriptions are searchable via the web GUI on the SPARQL endpoint of the triplestore. The dataset descriptions are stored on the basis of the DCAT vocabulary.

Who creates and manages the Dataset Register?

The Dataset Register was created by the collaborating heritage institutions in the Network Digital Heritage and is managed and maintained by the National Archives. The National Archives is responsible for the operation and availability of the Dataset Register.

Can I already use the Dataset Register?

Yes, of course! The definition of what information should be included in the dataset description is fixed. The mechanism to register dataset descriptions and the storage of dataset descriptions in a triplestore are also operational. As a dataset administrator you can therefore start by describing the available datasets, see where the dataset descriptions can be published and register them. This often also means contacting your software supplier.

If you want to go a step further, you can implement the Dataset Register in your collection management system so that collection managers can get started with it. We are happy to support you with this.

Are you getting started?

If you are going to start publishing dataset descriptions and the API on the Dataset Register, let us know so that we can keep you informed of developments, updates and availability.

Do you want to know more?

If you have any questions and/or comments about the functioning of the Dataset Register, please contact info@nationaalarchief.nl.