Information technology
Data processing steps
When marine data are handed over to BODC, they go through several intricate processing steps. Underpinning each step is the application of
- Scientific and computer expertise of BODC staff
- Preservation and quality control techniques
- Software and database technology that has evolved over the past 30 years
Data are first securely archived in their original form. Different BODC procedures are then applied depending on whether the data is destined for the National Oceanographic Database (NODB) or the Project Database.
The NODB procedures are broadly similar for all types of data. See our moored instrument data processing page for an example.
Data destined for BODC's Project Database go through similar procedures. For more information go to
- General data processing for projects
- CTD data processing for projects
- Underway data processing for projects
Only when all these steps have been completed are the data ready to be distributed. Distribution is by web access, or digital media (e.g. CDROM) and electronic transfers (e.g. FTP) in response to manual requests.
Related BODC pages
| Database design | Future strategy | |
| Software engineering | Project data management |
