The main elements are the sustained collection of ocean observations and the timely distribution of those data and derived products, including analyses, forecasts, and assessments.
Additional elements are the development and transfer of technology and building capabilities.
The system design is scientifically based and subject to continuing review. The international structure of GOOS consists of many diverse elements and is intimately linked with other observing systems. These relationships and individual structures may be viewed in the International GOOS structure diagram. The U.S. GOOS effort consists of a growing number of activities in data collection and management, hindcasts, estimations, forecasts, assessments, warnings, and advice. An indication may be obtained by considering the international GOOS Initial Observing System .