"Meta" is the highest permission level in the Open Directory Project (ODP). Meta editors stand out for their leadership abilities, enthusiasm, expert knowledge of the ODP's overall goals, and their positive contributions to the community. Meta is a highly visible and important role necessary in the development and continued growth of the ODP's self-governing community.
Editorial quality and teamwork are essential to the ODP's well being and continued growth. A Meta's principal responsibility is to create an environment where quality and teamwork are paramount, and decisions based consensus rule over all personal agendas and alliances. Metas develop the community by reviewing new editor applications and category permissions, and lead efforts to keep the ODP free of submission and editorial abuses and spam. Metas are expected to be active editors, community forum contributors, and follow the same guidelines set for all other editors.