NSDI | Federal | Guiding Principles

NSDI | Federal | Guiding Principles

Background

The National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI) is continually being developed and updated by the FGDC through the NSDI Strategic Planning and implementation initiatives.  

Introduction | NSDI Federal Guiding Principles

Federal agencies that produce, collect, maintain, or use spatial data either directly or indirectly will (1) recognize and manage their data as capital assets, (2) facilitate non-Federal participation in the development of the NSDI, and (3) work together through the FGDC to provide for effective and economical use and management of geospatial data in the digital environment for the benefit of the Nation.

Guiding Principles for the Federal Geospatial Community 

NSDI Principles | Inclusive | Authoritative Data | Privacy and Security | Proprietary Interest | Interoperability | Return on Investment |

  • Source Inclusive - Ensure that spatial data from multiple sources (Federal, State, Tribal, regional, and local governments; academia; and the private sector) are available and easily integrated to enhance understanding of our physical, natural, and cultural world.
  • Authoritative Data - Facilitate the development of authoritative National Geospatial Data Assets that are complete, accurate, current, standards-compliant, and at the scale needed for shared uses by Federal, State, Tribal, regional, and local governments, academia, the private sector, and the public.
  • Protect Privacy and Security - Protect the privacy and security of citizens’ personal data and ensure the accuracy of statistical information about people, both in raw form and in derived information products.
  • Accessibility - Enable access for all citizens to spatial data, information, and derivative and interpretive products, in accordance with Office of Management and Budget Circulars A–130 and A–16 and the Open Data Policy.
  • Proprietary Interest- Protect proprietary interests related to licensed information and data.
  • Interoperability - Enable interoperability of information systems through the use of open and machine-readable formats to enable access to resources from multiple agencies and partners.
  • Return on Investment - Ensure that investment and policy decisions consider the expected return on investment and effective use of resources

1. Guiding principles were adopted as part of the 2014-2016 NSDI Strategic Planning process.