Data Discovery and the NSDI Framework Data Survey

Abstract

This presentation provides background on the use of FGDC-style metadata for Clearinghouse Development, and provides managers and users with guidance on the use of the Clearinghouse to find spatial data. A Clearinghouse node minimizes duplication of effort in spatial data collection and processing, provides means to discover data collection requirements, inventory, and quality, and supports documentation of basic spatial data sets for advised re-use within internal and external applications. A rundown of the advantages of using FGDC-compliant metadata is offered, as well as various concerns for implementing metadata. Next, it looks at the NSDI Framework. The NSDI Framework is the data backbone for the NSDI, providing data, procedures, and technlogy. It is a way to facilitate 1)the production of geographic data, 2)the use of geographic data, 3)the reduction of operating costs, 4)improved service, and 5)decision making. The primary purposes of the framework are to provide a foundation to which spatial information and attributes can be added, provide a base on which other themes can be compiled, and provide the Spatial Reference for results of an analysis. This presentation provides results from a survey on frameworks. A successful framework is based on common interests and needs, will implement current “best business practices”, is built from the ground up, is based on good organizational self-assessment. As we develop a framework, we should be pro-active, know change factors, and know our customers and opportunities.