2. FUNCTIONS OF THE GDPFS


2.1 The real-time functions of the GDPFS shall include:


(a) Pre-processing of data, e.g. retrieval, quality control, decoding, sorting of data stored in a database for use in preparing output products;


(b) Preparation of analyses of the three-dimensional structure of the atmosphere with up-to-global coverage;


(c) Preparation of forecasting products (fields of basic and derived atmospheric parameters) with up-to-global coverage;


(d) Preparation of ensemble prediction system (EPS) products;


(e) Preparation of specialized products such as limited area very-fine mesh short-, medium-, extended- and long- range forecasts, regional climate watches, and tailored products for marine, aviation, environmental quality monitoring and other purposes;


(f) Monitoring of observational data quality;


(g) Post-processing of NWP data using workstation and PC-based systems with a view to producing tailored value added products and generation of weather and climate forecasts directly from model output.


2.2 The non-real-time functions of the GDPFS shall include:


(a) Preparation of special products for climate-related diagnosis (e.g. 10-day or 30-day means, summaries, frequencies, anomalies and historical reference climatologies) on a global or regional scale;


(b) Intercomparison of analysis and forecasting products, monitoring of observational data quality, verification of the accuracy of prepared forecast fields, diagnostic studies and NWP model development;


(c) Long-term storage of GOS data and GDPFS products, as well as verification results for operational and research use;


(d) Maintenance of a continuously-updated catalogue of data and products stored in the system;


(e) Exchange between GDPFS centres of ad hoc information via distributed databases;


(f) Conduct of workshops and seminars on the preparation and use of GDPFS output products.