Formats Evolution Process (FEP) - Key Questions

1. What is the evidence that multiple formats are impeding cost- effective research, and particularly cross-discipline research?

2. Can we identify and characterize a set of formatting approaches, and can we relate them to the types of situations where they are most effective? For example, different levels of self-description and/or the role of description languages may be used to distinguish formatting approaches. Some may be better suited for processing, transfer, low level data, or archival needs.

3. Can we identify practical ways in which multiple formats, using similar formatting approaches, may be encouraged to evolve toward greater commonality?

4. Can we see ways to reduce the number of formats used by projects in the NASA Sun-Earth-Connections domain?

5. What is the role that vendor's should play in fostering more cost- effective format usage?

6. How can format choices support archival needs for cost-effective management of well documented and readily accessible data over the long term?

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