A back-end application computer server may access a potential metadata entries data store containing a set of potential metadata entries, each entry including at least a data element name and a data element definition. A metadata collection system may be executed to automatically populate a metadata template based on the set of potential metadata entries. The system may update entries in the metadata template using a translation tool and validate the updated entries in the metadata template to ensure that required data elements are present. The system may also certify the validated entries load the set of certified metadata entries, including the certified data element names and certified data element definitions, into an enterprise metadata repository data store. Electronic messages may be exchanged to support at least one interactive user interface display associated with certification of the metadata template.