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1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose of this Guide

1.1.1 In conjunction with the Manual on WIS, the Guide to WIS is designed to ensure adequate uniformity and standardization in the data, information, and communications practices, procedures and specifications employed among WMO Members in the operation of WIS as it supports the mission of WMO. The Manual on WIS (WMO No. 1060), Annex VII to the WMO Technical Regulations, contains standard and recommended practices, procedures and specifications. The Guide to WIS contains additional information concerning practices, procedures and specifications which Members are invited to follow or implement in establishing and conducting their arrangements in compliance with WMO Technical Regulations and in developing meteorological and hydrological services.

1.1.2 Because WIS cross cuts all WMO related discipline areas, many other WMO practices, procedures and specifications intersect WIS. Recommended as well as standard practices, procedures and specifications are primarily defined in their specific publications, for example the Guide on the Global Data Processing and Forecast System (WMO No. 305) and the Guide to the Global Observing Systems (WMO No. 488), among others.

1.2 Benefits of WIS

1.2.1 WIS provides an overarching approach to data and information management for all WMO and related international programmes, leveraging the long-standing collaborative culture of WMO as well as new technologies.

1.2.2 WMO Members expect to realize specific benefits from WIS:

• WIS should enhance the collection of critical data needed to monitor and predict aspects of the environment, including hazards;
• WIS should catalogue the full range of data and products, simplifying search and assuring equitable access per WMO policies;
• WIS should enhance the availability of time-critical data and products at centres in all nations, ensuring the effective provision of services to their populations and economies;
• WIS should open up the WMO private network (the WMO Global Telecommunication System) to other types of environmental data so that all programmes have stronger infrastructure support; and
• WIS should exploit opportunities as they become available with technology innovation.