The user survey highlighted a mixed level of maturity in individual's self-assessment of the ability to use measurement uncertaintites appropriately. This is potentially an impediment to uptake of the use of reference quality data in applications such as satellite characterisation.
Some limited activity via publications, outreach and documentation of the virtual opbservatory.
Training and outreach is likely required on a sustained basis involving a range of mechanisms such as hands-on training, development of course materials, online worked examples, publications, manuals etc.
Specific remedy proposed
Develop a range of materials and approaches to help train users in the appropriate usage of uncertainty information in applications. Several approaches should be persued to cater for the range of user experiences to date, and the range of ways uesrs learn.
Measurable outcome of success
Improved usage of the Virtual Observatory tools by end-users.
Achievable outcomes
Technological / organizational viability: High
Indicative cost estimate: Medium (1 - 5 million)
Relevance
Increasing the expertise of end users to appropriately use the uncertainty information would increase the value of the data for multiple applications.
Timebound
Long term, at least five to ten years. Sustained.
Identified future risk / impact |
Probability of occurrence if gap not remedied |
Downstream impacts on ability to deliver high quality services to science / industry / society |
Lack of user ability to use the uncertainty information provided appropriately |
Low to High (user dependent) |
Lack of uptake of data leading to continued lack of use of best practices. |