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Part III. Appendix 2: Data TransportCharge to the Working Group/Bounds of the Problem to be AddressedGENERAL CHARGE TO THE GROUPBASIC ASSUMPTIONSThis section lists the basic assumptions that we are making in the design of the system. Such assumptionsare often hidden, but in the end drive system design. Here are some that we are making:• Data will be heterogeneous in type and storage format.• Data storage will be distributed.• Data will often, but not always, reside with the data collector.• The system to be developed will be a client-server system.Distribution assumptionsThe DMAC-SC DTT is proceeding initially under the assumption that data will be provided free ofcharge in the IOOS system. It remains to be determined how IOOS should handle the case of wishingto make available data for which there is an associated fee, but the system must be extensible toaccommodate such a case.Initially, also, the DTT is assuming that there are no limits to be set upon the amount of data allowedto be transmitted in response to a request. However, there ought to be a way for the user tofind out the size of the data set to be received beforehand, and it may be found desirable to querythe user if the response involves an inconveniently large amount of data.The primary mode of interaction will be to receive the requested data automatically and immediately.The DTT should also consider the desirability of establishing separate, optional downloadroutes, for example, via ftp with email notification.The DTT should also consider whether to make it possible for users to receive data in non-electronicform: CD, for instance, or on paper.148