Its aim is to develop a better understanding of hydrological variability and similarity across different regions through the mutual exchange of data, knowledge and techniques. Such knowledge is vital to improve practical water resource and flood design methods and in developing scenarios for environmental change.
Capacity building is an important part of the project in developing countries.
From a relatively modest beginning in 1985 with scientists from just four European countries, the project has grown considerably and now involves research institutes, universities and operational agencies from over 90 countries around the world. Access to data by external organisations is only possible with prior permission of the donor organisation and the database coordinator. Organisation Research is organised as a coordinated collection of individual research projects grouped together under common themes. Participants working on a particular project theme meet regularly to exchange models, data and techniques and to develop a consistent approach to solving hydrological problems in each country. Most Steering Committees meet annually to review progress and decide on the direction of future research.