The GWG advocates a standards-based approach to achieving optimal interoperability of GEOINT
data and systems. Interoperability allows systems to work together to support the sharing
of GEOINT, which is critical to the success of U.S. national security missions.
To achieve interoperability across different enterprise systems and geographical areas, the GWG
promotes open consensus standards that allow the use of standardized commercial off-the-shelf
solutions (SCOTS) that meet the needs of the GEOINT community. The GWG, whenever feasible, adopts
and profiles existing national and international standards to meet their data sharing
requirements. In addition, NGA and its partnering GWG members represent the GEOINT community
in a variety of national and international forums in order to promote the development of standards
that support national objectives.
In carrying out its standards activities, the GWG adheres to the standards goals set by the U.S.
government in Public Law
104-113, the National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (NTTAA) of 1995 and the Office
of Management and Budget (OMB)
Circular No. A-119. These direct federal agencies to adopt private sector standards, particularly
those developed by standards development organizations wherever possible in lieu of creating
proprietary, non-consensus standards.
These policies seek to achieve the following goals, as documented in OMB Circular A-119:
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Eliminate the cost to the Government of developing its own standards and decrease the cost of
goods procured and the burden of complying with agency regulation.
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Provide incentives and opportunities to establish standards that serve national needs.
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Encourage long-term growth for U.S. enterprises and promote efficiency and economic competition
through harmonization of standards.
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Further the policy of reliance upon the private sector to supply Government needs for goods
and services.
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