Coordinates the development of the National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI).  NSDI consistent, reliable means to share geographic data among all users, nationwide, could result in significant savings for data collection, enhanced use of data, and better decision making.

Problem

• Cost of GIS Data is high, and Data are duplicated.
• Size of Geographical Information is huge.
• Most of GIS project is implemented as stand-alone application and it does not run on Computer Network.
• The best data may be collected on the local level, but they are unavailable to be shared.
• GIS digital data may be incomplete or incompatible. The lack of metadata or information on the "who, what, when, where, why, and how" of databases inhibits one's ability to find and use data, and consequently, makes data sharing among organizations harder.

Solution

• Creation of a distributed electronic network of data producers and users, known as the National Geospatial Data Clearinghouse.
• Development of standards for data documentation, collection, and exchange.
• Formulation of procedures and partnerships to create a national digital geospatial data framework that would include important basic categories of data significant to a broad variety of users.
• Development of new relationships that allow organizations and individuals from all sectors to work together to share geospatial data.

Vision and Goals

Vision

Current and accurate geospatial data will be readily available to contribute locally, nationally, and globally to economic growth, environmental quality and stability, and social progress.

Goals

• Develop common solutions for discovery, access, and use of geospatial data in response to the needs of diverse communities.
• Use community-based approaches to develop and maintain common collections of geospatial data for sound decision-making.