DCAT Validator

The DCAT Validator analyzes data catalog metadata to verify conformance with DCAT specifications and common profiles. It accepts a catalog URL or RDF file and reports structural correctness, required fields, and cross-resource relationships. The tool targets data stewards, data engineers, and catalog publishers who prepare metadata for data portals, registries, and governance dashboards to ensure discoverability and interoperability.
Conceptually, validation uses formal shapes and rule sets aligned with DCAT 2 and DCAT-AP profiles. It checks essential properties, correct types, and consistent references between catalog, dataset, and distribution resources. The output includes error severities, locations, and recommended fixes, enabling automation, CI integration, and batch workflows for large catalogs.
This tool supports both URL-based validation and optional file uploads, with outputs available in machine readable JSON and human readable HTML. Users can choose profiles, scopes, and strictness levels to tailor checks. Its value lies in early detection of invalid URIs, missing attributes, or broken links before publication to data portals.
Core differentiators include multi-profile validation, precise location-based reporting, and export-ready artifacts suitable for ticketing systems and governance reports. It supports incremental validation for large catalogs and API-assisted workflows. Common use cases include onboarding datasets to data catalogs, compliance reporting, and certification workflows for data ecosystems.