NSIDC provides many individual component tools that cover the span of user needs. However, these tools reside in a variety of storage systems and are used on a variety of user interfaces. Thus, NSIDC is in the process of consolidating these tools and storage systems into an evolutionary architecture that will enhance our ability to deliver new capabilities quicker, and improve user effectiveness while simplifying maintenance and improving robustness. Some initiatives that are underway or being planned include:

• MVC Architecture: The Model-View-Controller (MVC) Architecture provides a three-tier structure for building software, decoupling user interfaces from application logic, and underlying data structures.  Although these concepts were used in an ad hoc fashion for many earlier development projects, comprehensive adoption of this model is the cornerstone of a framework for evolution of our interfaces and services as user expectations become more sophisticated over time.
  
  
• Consolidated Data Storage: The DAAC currently houses data in multiple systems that have grown from differing historical requirements. Data are also kept in a variety of storage media to balance the demand for data and services against the cost of storage. As this cost is steadily decreasing, there is opportunity to increase service to users by locating more data on rapid-access disk and to consolidate disparate systems into a more cohesive entity. Our system maintenance costs will be reduced as we are able to improve the user experience through simplified search and access methods and more comprehensive data services.
  
  
• Use of OGC Standards: The Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) specifications for Web Map Service, Web Feature Service, and Web Coverage Service provide a framework for sharing maps and geospatial data over the Internet. The DAAC provides data within these specifications to a growing extent, and fully supports the goals of broad data sharing.