Source

Definition: The source is where the data we want are found. In DataSpecs, Source is a reference to an external source that controls the Option.

What This Means: The source is highly important to know because there can be many sources for the same data. In reality, there should be only one “authoritative data source.” This is where the official data are kept. This is the only place to go if you want the real data. If you ask for the authoritative data source, and you get more than one possibility, then your agency is not in full control of its data.

Also, term that is functional for users of ESP’s metadata dictionary tool, called DataSpecs. DataSpecs is used when developing an education agency’s data dictionary.

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