Paper share: WORKSHOP REPORT • Navigating the Data Deluge: A Collaborative Vision for a Unified Subsea Data Ecosystem

[Mathew Biddle - NOAA Federal]

Ferrini, V., C. Haskins, and C. Bassin. 2026. Navigating the data deluge: A collaborative vision for a unified subsea data ecosystem. Oceanography 39(3), https://doi.org/10.5670/oceanog.2026.e303.

Title: WORKSHOP REPORT • Navigating the Data Deluge: A Collaborative Vision for a Unified Subsea Data Ecosystem

Abstract: 

The marine science community is generating unprecedented volumes of data from advanced sensors, submersibles, and observational platforms, but fragmentation across the data ecosystem limits their discovery, value, and use. Inconsistent formats, variable at-sea workflows, and incomplete metadata, coupled with disconnected repositories and limited interoperability, hinder operational decision-making, data discovery, integration, and long-term reuse, creating inefficiencies for researchers. This paper synthesizes outcomes from the Data at Sea workshop, which brought together a cross-disciplinary community to address technical, operational, and institutional barriers spanning subsea data acquisition, near-real-time use, delivery, and stewardship. We present a collaborative framework envisioned by workshop participants for creating a more unified subsea data ecosystem built on shared tools, interoperable workflows, standardized products, improved practices, and community-driven knowledge sharing. Proposed actions include developing centralized knowledge resources, standardizing integration workflows, sharing of data processing plans, supporting data specialists, and expanding training. Reducing friction will improve operational efficiency, accelerate scientific insight, and broaden access to subsea data tools and knowledge.

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Mathew Biddle, Physical Scientist
NOAA/NOS
US Integrated Ocean Observing System Office
1315 East-West Highway
Silver Spring MD 20910

240-533-9470

ORCiD: 0000-0003-4897-1669

http://www.ioos.noaa.gov/