The Data Catalog & Metadata Management domain is structured across the three dimensions of Plan, Implement, and Operate, and includes six controls and twelve specifications, with some specifications divided into two or more specifications depending on the capability: Foundational, Advanced, or Very Advanced. Data Catalog & Metadata Management focuses on the systematic collection and management of metadata to support data governance, compliance, and usability across an organization. This domain encompasses the creation and maintenance of a centralized data catalog that provides a comprehensive view of data assets, facilitating data discovery, understanding, and trust. It involves defining and documenting data sources, content, and context, thereby enabling more efficient data integration, data quality enhancement, and support for analytics and decision-making. The domain also includes the management of metadata that describes the structure, policies, and control mechanisms of the data, ensuring proper alignment with business needs and regulatory requirements.