Skip to main content
Glama
cliwant

mcp-sam-gov

by cliwant

socrata_discover_datasets

Read-only

Search for Socrata datasets by keyword, optionally scoped to a domain. Returns IDs, names, and metadata for use in subsequent queries.

Instructions

Find Socrata dataset 4x4 ids by keyword via the Socrata catalog (keyless, api.us.socrata.com). Input q (e.g. 'procurement', 'vendor payments'), optional domain (scope to one allowlisted portal; omit to search the whole allowlist), limit (≤100, def 20). Returns [{ id, name, description, domain, updatedAt, link }] + totalAvailable = the catalog resultSetSize. Feed a result's id to socrata_query as datasetId. NOTE: the federated catalog does not index every allowlisted host (e.g. USAC E-rate) — those stay queryable via socrata_query with a known 4x4.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
qYesKeyword(s) to find datasets, e.g. 'procurement', 'vendor payments', 'checkbook'.
limitNoMax datasets to return, 1..100, default 20.
domainNoOptional: scope discovery to ONE allowlisted portal. Omit to search the whole allowlist. NOTE: the federated catalog does not index every host (e.g. USAC E-rate returns 0) — those remain queryable via socrata_query with a known 4x4.
Behavior5/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

Beyond annotations (readOnlyHint, openWorldHint), the description explains that the tool is keyless, uses a specific API, returns structured data with fields, and notes the limitation that not all allowlisted hosts are indexed.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness4/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is information-dense and front-loaded with the main purpose, but the single paragraph structure could be slightly improved for readability; still concise and effective.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness5/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

The description explains return format (list of fields plus totalAvailable) and caveats about federated catalog, making it complete for a search tool with no output schema.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters5/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

The description adds meaningful context to all three parameters: q provides examples, domain explains scoping and limitation, limit gives range and default. Schema coverage is 100% and description adds value beyond schema.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the tool finds Socrata dataset 4x4 ids by keyword, distinguishing from the sibling socrata_query tool by noting that discovered ids can be fed to socrata_query.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines5/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description specifies required input q, optional domain and limit, and provides explicit guidance on when to use socrata_query instead (when federated catalog does not index a host).

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

Install Server

Other Tools

Latest Blog Posts

MCP directory API

We provide all the information about MCP servers via our MCP API.

curl -X GET 'https://glama.ai/api/mcp/v1/servers/cliwant/mcp-sam-gov'

If you have feedback or need assistance with the MCP directory API, please join our Discord server