Controlled Vocabulary
A controlled vocabulary (CV) is a list of terms intended to constrain the values a property may contain.
The purpose of having a CV is to generalize the data for certain elements. This generalization facilitates standardization which is the goal of MDDL.
Using a controlled vocabular for a property, rather than inserting the limiting values in the schemas, allows modification to the lists without affecting the processing of MDDL. This permits data providers to provide specific lists for certain properties independent of the specification.
MDDL utilizes two types of CVs:
Internal:Internal CVs are controlled and maintained by MDDL. Any changes can be done by FISD staff.
External:
External CVs are lists (or standards) defined by organizations, or referring to content, not within the control of MDDL.
Click here to view an example using a CV.