1. A method including: storing metadata in a data storage system; computing summary data identifying one or more characteristics of each of multiple metadata objects stored in the data storage system; storing the summary data characterizing a given metadata object in association with the given metadata object; and generating a visual representation of a diagram that illustrates at least three aspects of the given metadata object, the at least three aspects including: relationships between the given metadata object and other metadata objects, the relationships being represented between nodes that represent the other metadata objects and a node that represents the given metadata object; a context of the given metadata object, with the given metadata object being shown in a group based on the context; and a characteristic identified by the summary data characterizing the given metadata object; wherein generating the visual representation includes superimposing a representation of the characteristic in proximity to the node representing the given metadata object.