Data Management

Data Storage

• Miscellaneous recommendations relate to analytical data reporting (maximum of 4 significant figures, and adequate resolution close to the detection limit), data formats, units of measurement, geographical coordinates, data transfer, and the availability of a standard query (command) language.

Databases

The following databases should be established:

• A Global Geochemical Reference Database, which will contain new data consistent with the proposed GRN specifications;

• An index database for administrative and general information;

• A block database for median values of elements in large blocks (0.5 x 0.5 degrees spherical rectangles for old compiled data, and 160 x 160 km cells for global reference sampling data) for global presentation;

• A bibliographic database for related publications.