National oceanographic information system

Abstract

Ocean study is inherently interdisciplinary and therefore calls for a controlled and integrated approach for information generation, processing and decision making. In this context, Indian National Oceanographic Data Centre (INODC) of National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula, Goa, India has been recognized as a national facility to acquire, process, store and disseminate the oceanographic data pertaining to Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, Laccadive Sea, Andaman and Nicobar Sea and the Indian Ocean. At INODC, a National Information system for oceanographic studies is under development. Bibliographic information forms an integral part of oceanographic system as it is an essential component for data analysis and interpretation. Hence two major systems are considered under National Oceanographic Information System viz. (1) Data and Information system, (2) Library and documentation system. The present status, organization and structure, role and functions of the above mentioned systems impact of information technology and outlook for the future are described.