----------------------------Original message---------------------------- Subject: Time:1:04 PM OFFICE MEMO Data Cataloging Date:9/8/93 Regarding the recent messages on the subject of cataloging data: The Directory Interchange Format(DIF) is a data structure used to exchange directory level information about data sets among information systems. The DIF, developed by NASA, is used by NASA and other agencies to describe data in the Global Change Master Directory. The Consortium for International Earth Science Information Network(CIESIN) is cataloging metadata on the human dimensions of global environmental change, also in the Directory Interchange Format(DIF). You can look at some examples of CIESIN's metadata in the Directory Interchange Format in the CIESIN Information Gateway. Telnet to gopher.ciesin.org and login: gopher. Select the main menu topic "Resource Discovery at CIESIN", then "Data and Information Services", then "CIESIN's DIFs". Open any of the DIFs to get a sense for the information contained and layout. You can also look at map DIFs through CIESIN's Information Gateway by selecting the main menu item "Search the CIESIN Menu Tree," and entering the search term "USGS." You can then query USGS with the term "maps," and raise an assortment of map DIFs. For more information on Directory Interchange Format, contact the Master Directory User Support Office at (301)513-1687 or [log in to unmask]