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Moving forward with metadata: Metadata Editor Classic is retiring

By Maria Jordan and Jordan Duft

 

Metadata editor classic is retiring in 2025 in both ArcGIS Online and ArcGIS Enterprise, and the unified metadata editor will be the go-to for populating and updating metadata in ArcGIS. We are excited to be moving forward, and wanted to share timelines, next steps, and resources with you.

Retirement timeline

Metadata editor classic is expected to be retired in 2025.

  • ArcGIS Online – Metadata editor classic is planned to be retired and will no longer be available with the first ArcGIS Online release in 2025.
  • ArcGIS Enterprise Metadata editor classic is planned to be retired and will no longer be available with the second release of ArcGIS Enterprise in 2025.

For both ArcGIS Online and ArcGIS Enterprise, metadata previously saved using metadata editor classic will automatically be opened and saved when using the metadata editor.

Good metadata supports the FAIR (findability, accessibility, interoperability, reusability) data principles which fosters trust, accountability, and ultimately, making better decisions with data. The unified metadata editor is designed to simplify metadata management and editing across the ArcGIS platform.

What about my existing metadata?

Existing metadata saved using metadata editor classic will seamlessly transition to the “new” metadata editor. Therefore, you can continue to create and manage standards-based metadata using the new and improved metadata editor.  

 

Next steps

For a smooth transition, it is encouraged to adjust your organization’s workflows to use the new metadata editor in preparation for the retirement of metadata editor classic. Proactive evaluation and adoption of the metadata editor is recommended to test your workflows. If you encounter concerns or obstacles during this process, please share your feedback on the Metadata, Catalogs and Search Esri Community, or reach out to Esri Support for assistance. This feedback will help in addressing issues effectively and connecting you with relevant supporting materials or teams. 


Looking ahead

The ArcGIS platform has had different experiences for editing metadata. The unified metadata editor was developed to reduce the complexity and unify the metadata editing experience across ArcGIS. It will soon be seamlessly integrated into ArcGIS Pro to match the metadata editing experience in ArcGIS Online and ArcGIS Enterprise. The primary focus remains on simplifying and accelerating the creation and maintenance of metadata, ensuring that users can efficiently and effectively manage metadata for their data in ArcGIS. Through these advancements, we look forward to a more efficient, collaborative, and innovative approach to metadata management across ArcGIS.


Resources

 

Connect with us

Please reach out to us on Esri Community if you have questions, concerns, and/or clarifications about the retirement or the transition to the unified metadata editor.

 

The progression to the unified metadata editor reflects Esri’s commitment to providing and improving tools for effective metadata management. Embracing this change will ensure you stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and capabilities within the ArcGIS platform.

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