GTOS is:
A facilitator to encourage the open and free exchange of data and assure both developed and developing countries, equal access to the data;
A broker of data to facilitate data discovery and understand user needs;
A source of quality control of data sets to promote the development of translation protocols to harmonise measurement methodologies;
A source of coherence and reliability in data collected by partners, in part, by identifying gaps and evaluating metadata;
A provider of guidance in data analysis and interpretation to meet user requirements, including "quick" methods such as rapid rural appraisal and data aggregation and extrapolation;
A promoter of collaboration between existing observation sites and of new initiatives to fill key gaps in information and understanding of managed and natural ecosystems.
A programme that focuses on bio-physical data and socio-economic data;
A partnership of partnerships.
GTOS is NOT:
NOT a source of funding but does assist others in seeking funds for scientifically sound work that is consistent with its objectives;
NOT a source of primary data;
NOT responsible for any ongoing research programme.
