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Overview
Data Management
Scientific Research
NSIDC Director
NSIDC History
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Why is data management important?
Scientific data management forms the basis for the research that informs
our world about Earth. For example, a scientist who studies changes in
Arctic permafrost needs to have quick access to reliable long-term satellite
data from his or her study region to complete important projects on permafrost
stability. However, the scientist may also need data that are decades
old so that environmental change can be documented.
If specialists do not properly compile data into data sets, check them
for accuracy, preserve and document them from the outset, the information
may be lost to science. In some cases, historical records that were not
properly archived must be "rescued" before they become permanently
lost. Plus, new data coming in from today’s satellites also
need to be processed, archived, and documented for current use and long-term
preservation.
What does data management involve?
However, sound data management does not simply consist of acquiring
data and dumping it into an existing archive. Good data management is
about scientific data stewardship.
All incoming data should go through
a well-defined process to ensure that records will not become lost or
inaccessible as time passes and technology changes. Data teams at NSIDC
provide expertise in data set creation, analysis, trouble-shooting, interpretation,
preservation, archiving, and dissemination. We also research data management
practices and storage technologies and integrate them into existing systems.
More information
To access our data, please see Data Products & Services. |
| See Also |
IPY at NSIDC
The International Polar Year has important
implications for data management at NSIDC. |
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