Definition of a metadata model for a multi-layered clinical practice guideline representation framework

Representatives from a consortium of academic institutions, healthcare organisations, and commercial entities have collaborated to implement and evaluate a multi–layered representation framework targeted to promote the sharing and distribution of clinical practice guideline knowledge artefacts. Definition of a metadata model for knowledge artefacts submitted to a shared repository based on this framework proceeded through an iterative process that sought to strike a balance between the need to provide enough specification to allow for efficient indexing and retrieval and recognition of the potential burden imposed by excessive requirements.