The benefits of improved effectiveness, particularly in the tactical environment, can significantly outweigh cost savings. During a recent analysis of metadata captured from two different shipboard threat-warning systems, differing representations for identifying threat levels were discovered. Although these systems may not currently exchange these data values, the potential for exchange in the future may be a possibility. The DON CIO recognizes the importance of addressing the larger area of information management and knowledge management. The current data management focus establishes the foundation for effective information management.
Data management supports information and knowledge management, which facilitate decision-making.
Data are the basic elements of information. The integrity of the data infrastructure affects the entire spectrum of the information and knowledge architecture and the reliability and speed of the decision process. We cannot achieve data management goals without sound architectures and standards that are responsive to the needs of systems developers. Data standards are essential to interoperability and horizontal integration. Data standards issues have proven more complex than those associated with hardware and software, because they reflect diverse functional cultures and regional operational practices.