Create a metadata template with ArcObjects and Visual Basic

Summary

With programming you can create a custom importer that can add template information that is appropriate for a specific type of dataset. You can also create a custom synchronizer that adds the same template information to all items.

Procedure

1. If you use different templates as the basis for describing coverages and rasters or different templates for different projects, a custom importer can insert the appropriate template into the item’s existing metadata. The content of each template can either be defined within the importer’s code or as XML files.
   
   See: How To: Create a metadata template When deciding which method to use, consider how often the content of the templates may change or how often new templates are added and which method will be more convenient for you to update.

   Note:
   Samples that show how to build a custom metadata importer are provided with the ArcObjects Developer Kit and are available for download from ArcObjects Online. 
   

   For a list of available samples, as well as descriptions and instructions for using them, do the following:
   
   A. Click Start > Programs > ArcGIS > ArcObjects Developer Help.
   B. Switch to the Contents tab.
   C. Double-click Samples.
   D. Double-click Metadata.
   
   More recent samples may be available for download over the Internet. Click the Welcome topic at the top of the Contents tab, and scroll to the bottom of the topic. Click the link to ArcObjects Online.

   
   
2. If you are using ArcGIS 8.1 you also have the option to create a custom metadata synchronizer. Each enabled synchronizer adds information to the metadata when the IMetadata. Synchronize method is used, for example, when metadata is automatically created by ArcCatalog. A custom synchronizer can add your template information to the metadata when ArcCatalog creates a new metadata document.