# Metadata

The Metadata tab holds information about the asset's custom defined or embedded metadata and is organised in 2 relevant sub-tabs.

## Custom-defined metadata

You can create and customize metadata fields to fit your needs. These fields are categorised and apply to all assets within a specific Scaleflex DAM project (token). If you manage multiple projects, each can have its own unique metadata structure.

The Custom metadata fields are visible in the asset management modal, tab **Metadata -> Custom**.

[<mark style="color:blue;">See Managing metadata.</mark><br>](https://docs.scaleflex.com/digital-asset-management-dam/settings/metadata/metadata-configuration)

<figure><img src="https://2536208400-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2Fqsq2dR7Fjagf5eTifWZx%2Fuploads%2FWZgACqgs9dy8l9XUw1K7%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=daef3e4b-9422-4fcd-9240-660036467f4b" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Embedded metadata

Embedded metadata is stored within the asset itself and remains with it when the file is shared or downloaded. Various software tools can access and read this metadata. Examples of embedded metadata include GPS coordinates, the author's name, camera details, and more.&#x20;

Scaleflex DAM can extract embedded metadata, even from custom namespaces (e.g. model name, product category), and map them to fields in the [**Custom metadata**](#custom-defined-metadata) section.

To enable embedded metadata extraction:

1. Go to **Settings > DAM > Automations**.
2. Enable the **Extract embedded metadata** post-process.

<figure><img src="https://2536208400-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2Fqsq2dR7Fjagf5eTifWZx%2Fuploads%2FDp7nAftqbemc6ic3dlnY%2Fxtract%20embed.png?alt=media&#x26;token=1519b9ab-c440-46d7-bd32-88691011847f" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Once enabled and saved, embedded metadata will be automatically extracted upon file upload and displayed in the **Metadata -> Embedded** tab of the asset management modal.

<figure><img src="https://2536208400-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2Fqsq2dR7Fjagf5eTifWZx%2Fuploads%2Fq2C1mJw2V7ix2KVBz4eX%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=45b9b1fb-cd10-4d18-90c9-b1fd5f582d82" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="info" %}
To use embedded metadata for search or collection grouping, [contact our support team](https://scaleflex.zendesk.com/hc/en-gb/requests/new) to enable the mapping between embedded and custom metadata.
{% endhint %}