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The Federal Geographic Data Committee has published a handbook, The
Framework Introduction and Guide. The guide introduces the framework
concepts that have been developed over the past several years by the
geospatial data community in support of the National Spatial Data
Infrastructure and describes what individuals and organizations can do
to participate in the development and use of framework data.
 
The framework represents a collaborative effort to create a widely
available source of common themes of basic geographic data. It provides
the most common data themes geographic data users need as well as an
environment to support the development and use of these data.
 
Written for users and producers of digital geographic data, the 106-page
guide introduces framework concepts, suggests actions participants can
take, and provides a directory of useful resources. It is geared toward
both technical and managerial interests, and addresses issues related to
collaborative data development and maintenance.
 
Portions of the text will be posted to the FGDC web page this winter.
You can find it at www.fgdc.gov under the Framework/References section.
The printed version is now available. You can get a copy by writing,
faxing or e-mailing the FGDC (c/o U.S. Geological Survey, 590 National
Center, Reston, VA 20192 att. J. Fox;  703-648-5514;  703-648
5755[fax],<a href="/scripts/wa-UGA.exe?LOGON=A3%3D9801%26L%3DMAPS-L%26E%3D7BIT%26P%3D175337%26B%3D--%26T%3Dtext%252FplainTEXT%252FPLAIN%3B%2520charset%3DUS-ASCII%26pending%3D" target="_parent" >[log in to unmask]</a>) and requesting the Framework Introduction and
Guide. Be sure to include your full postal address.
 
For more information on the framework contact Michael Domaratz, Federal
Geographic Data Committee, 703-648-4533