Historically this is largely true, but a revolution in data-gathering and processing capability has made direct access to data products by all potential users a practical possibility. A national plan should acknowledge this possibility and actively promote the integration of product development and operational product delivery as an essential component of national data management strategy. This example also indicates that there are substantial technical development tasks to be addressed. The development of user-friendly systems for data access and archive such as the Blue Pages project is a case in point. In spite of the quantity and variety of marine data, its coordination in a unified national framework is not an impossible task, because of advances in electronic communication.
Centralised archives are no longer necessary.
Adequate submission and metadata protocols Security and access controls, and A resourcing framework to facilitate submission and management of data holdings. Particular attention should be given to the potential role of satellite and airborne remote sensing for data collection and monitoring of the state of the marine environment. In parallel with national data initiatives there are international developments in the enhancement and coordination of marine data. Such systems define the design and standards for the international exchange of marine data of common value. They will actually be implemented through the voluntary participation of nations like ours.