Efficient access to climate products using ACIS web services

Abstract

ACIS Version 2 facilitates the integration of ACIS climate data access and reduction capabilities into user-specific decision tools, customized dynamic websites (such as those highlighted at http://rcc-acis.org/examples. html), and client-developed computer code. Through effective use of ACIS, climate service providers are relieved of the burden and inefficiencies of managing and updating their own climate databases. Rather, the onus is placed upon the RCC Program, as a part of its stated mission is to facilitate the dissemination and use of climate information by decision makers from a wide range of climate-sensitive sectors. This assures that users (and providers) of climate data products receive the most accurate and up-to-date climate information possible, regardless of source. Likewise, standardized ACIS reduction protocols assure consistent handling of subtleties such as rounding, accumulations, missing data, etc. The ACIS web services interface currently serves as a core resource for climate service activities within the Regional Climate Centers, National Weather Service, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and several private industry partners. It provides efficient, responsive, and standardized access to summarized climate data products that are consistent with data from the NCDC archive. This allows public and private climate service providers to focus on developing tools and disseminating information to meet customer needs.