What does structural metadata indicate about data?

Structural metadata provides insights into how data is organized, detailing the format and structure of data collections. It describes the relationships between different data elements and how they are arranged within a system, making it easier to navigate and utilize the data effectively. For instance, structural metadata might specify the arrangement of records within a database or the hierarchy within an XML document. This type of metadata is essential for database management, facilitating data retrieval and management by clearly outlining how different pieces of data relate to one another and are formatted. Understanding the structure allows data analysts and users to leverage the data more efficiently for analysis and decision-making. This is distinct from the other options, which focus on usage, sourcing, or privacy measures, rather than the inherent organization of the data itself.