Preserving Scientific Data on Our Physical Universe : A New Strategy for Archiving the Nation's Scientific Information Resources

This book advises the National Archives and Records Administration and federal R&D agencies on the long-term retention of scientific and technical data, particularly in electronic formats. It proposes the creation of a National Scientific Information Resource Federation, which would apply a strategic data life-cycle management plan to better link the government's existing scientific data holdings and improve public access to those holdings. The book is expected to draw attention to data management concerns in the context of the current government emphasis on promoting a National Information Infrastructure and to make a significant contribution to improving the inadequate situation regarding our nation's valuable scientific data and information resources. Introduction: Imperatives For Preserving Data On Our Physical Universe ; A New Future For Scientific Data -- The Challenge, Preservation And Use Of Scientific Data: Experimental Laboratory Data ; Observational Data In The Physical Sciences ; Summary Of Major Issues -- Retention Criteria And The Appraisal Process: Retention Criteria ; Other Elements Of The Appraisal Process ; Recommendations -- The Opportunities, The Relationship Of Technological Advances To New Data Use And Retention Strategies: Enabling Technologies And Related Developments ; Opportunities For New Organizational Structures -- A New Strategy For Archiving The Nation's Scientific And Technical Data: Fundamental Principles For Long-term Data Retention ; The Proposed National Scientific Information Resource Federation ; Recommendations For The Creation Of The Nsir Federation ; Recommendations Specifically For Nara ; Recommendations Specifically For Noaa. Steering Committee For The Study On The Long-term Retention Of Selected Scientific And Technical Records Of The Federal Government, Commission On Physical Sciences, Mathematics, And Applications, National Research Council. Includes Bibliographical References (p. 62-63). Advises the National Archives and Records Administration and federal R&D agencies on the long-term retention of scientific and technical data, in electronic formats. This book proposes the creation of a National Scientific Information Resource Federation, to link the government's scientific data holdings and improve their public access.