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We are increasingly reliant on information technology for data exchange and long‐term data storage. For this global environment, we need a universal data management system. The use of metadata to manage data is key to this objective. The research of which this paper is a preliminary description and analysis, conducted in the Department of Information and Library Studies at Loughborough University, is investigating the potential of the metadata concept as the key to universal data management. The research specifically explores the attitudes of information professionals in the United Kingdom to these issues. The paper considers the reasons for preserving digital data, the role of metadata in this preservation, and the attitudes of, and challenges facing, a diversity of organisations in which digital data has to be preserved. The preliminary findings suggest the need for a unified yet flexible system which will allow interoperability between existing and future metadata formats. A system of super‐metadata would draw on the strengths of expertise across the width of the information community.

This paper examines the reasons why existing management practices designed to cope with paper‐based data objects appear to be inadequate for managing digital data objects (DDOs). The research described suggests the need for a reassessment of the way we view long‐term access to DDOs. There is a need for a shift in emphasis which embraces the fluid nature of such objects and addresses the multifaceted issues involved in achieving such access. It would appear from the findings of this research that a conceptual framework needs to be developed which addresses a range of elements. The research achieved this by examining the issues facing stakeholders involved in this field; examining the need for and structure of a new generic conceptual framework, the super‐metadata framework; identifying and discussing the issues central to the development of such a framework; and justifying the feasibility through the creation of an interactive cost model and stakeholder evaluation. The wider conceptual justification for such a framework is discussed and this involves an examination of the “public good” argument for the long‐term retention of DDOs and the importance of selection in the management process. The paper concludes by considering the benefits to practitioners and the role they might play in testing the feasibility of such a framework. The paper also suggests possible avenues researchers may wish to consider to develop further the management of this field. (Note: This paper is derived from the author’s Loughborough University phD thesis, “Managing long‐term access to digital data objects: a metadata approach”, written while holding a research studentship funded by the Department of Information Science.)

This paper is an extended review and expert commentary on a recently published study by the Centre for Housing Policy (CHP) which discusses the complexities of research in “housing related support” in the UK context, and proposes further work. This review aims to explore the strengths and limitations of the study; and the potential wider relevance outside the UK research context.

The review methodology is traditionally that of expert opinion. The reviewer draws upon previous evaluation studies of mental health and housing, commissioned by the UK Dept of Health, the (Dept of) Communities and Local Government, the National Institute for Mental Health in England, and the Care Services Improvement Partnership, including additional material on the Mental Health Minimum Dataset.

The CHP report reviewed raises important questions over the complexities of evidencing innovative services. Despite some omissions, it should be helpful to health local commissioners in assessing the value of services; and the further research the report proposes is to be welcomed. The report also provides a useful introduction to “housing related support” for an international research audience, less familiar with the UK social policy and funding context.

The review introduces and recommends the CHP study – which is itself a valuable contribution to future research on housing‐related support – to a wider audience. The review also includes additional material never before published on the potential research value in the context of the Mental Health Minimum Dataset.