NOAA Releases Guidance for Commercial Data Buys
Today, NOAA released its Guidance for NOAA Commercial Data Buys: A Framework for NOAA Programs and Offices Conducting Commercial Data Buys. The document lays out the considerations, best practices, and guidelines which NOAA programs and offices should consider when engaging with the commercial sector on commercial data buy opportunities from all sources that contribute to environmental intelligence.
This document outlines how NOAA will collaborate with private sector providers, including through the Commercial Data Purchase (CDP) program, to enhance its ability to deliver reliable environmental intelligence, protect lives, and support the U.S. economy. The guidance does not apply to NOAA’s purchases of commercial space situational awareness (SSA) data.
The framework is intended to illustrate why and when buying commercial environmental data is in alignment with the NOAA mission. Guiding principles include:
- Innovation: Leveraging the private sector’s rapidly evolving technologies to expand NOAA’s capabilities.
- Quality and Service Standards: Ensuring all data meet rigorous operational and scientific requirements.
- Global Commitments: Honoring international agreements that guarantee access to global data.
- Cost Efficiency: Delivering the best value for taxpayers while maintaining mission-critical services.
- Supply Chain and Security: Mitigating risks to data integrity and ensuring privacy protections.
- Research Enablement: Supporting a vibrant research ecosystem reliant on high-quality environmental data.
To uphold these principles, the Guidance for NOAA Commercial Data Buys prescribes several best practices, including:
- Pilot Projects: Testing new technologies and data sources through limited trials to assess their quality and impact.
- Data Licensing: Exploring flexible licensing options to balance public and private sector needs while maximizing NOAA’s operational use.
- Risk Assessment: Identifying and mitigating risks related to supply chain, cybersecurity, and data reliability.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Comparing costs of commercial data against in-house or partner-generated alternatives to ensure economic efficiency.
By standardizing these practices, NOAA aims to create consistency and clarity in its interactions with commercial data providers.
Going forward, the Guidance for NOAA Commercial Data Buys will be used in FAR-based government contracts with non-federal owners of environmental observing networks, including in situ and remote sensing technologies. CRADAs and cooperative agreements are not included.