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Recent Subprogramme 4 news:
The challenge of linking and integrating information components and analysis tools into a coherent information gateway plays a central role within the Generation Challenge Programme and forms the basis of Subprogramme 4. In the first three technical subprogrammes of GCP, substantial amounts of information are being generated in numerous labs and fields all over the globe. The value of this information remains largely dependent on the way it is managed, analysed, and made accessible. The way the data can be analysed in turn depends on the way analysis tools and other information resources are made available.
SP4 addresses critical questions about methodologies for linking gene discovery with genetic resource characterisation and crop evaluation data by improving existing and developing new analytical tools. The first three subprogrammes will define the specific requirements of these tools. By forging a strategic alliance between bioinformatic, biometric and advanced data management techniques, we are creating a network that integrates genetic resources, genomics, and crop improvement information which will be the basis of genetic resource management and use for the next century. SP4 participates in ongoing initiatives proposed by the global community-using, supporting, and participating in the development of global standards and common technologies for data exchange. Thus, the GCP network is fully integrated in the global network of resources in the field of genomic science and genetic resources management.
Since data has been generated by GCP from the very beginning, it has become necessary to develop and implement short-term solutions for all pertinent data as we await the 'global network' solutions. These short-term solutions use simple approaches that allow storage of the data in such a way that it can be fully interpreted and converted to any other format, providing full access to any authorised user. In the development of new or existing technology, we follow a short cycle approach. This requires a standardised approach in which simple applications build on a few use cases that are improved based on feedback from the user and the addition of data from more use cases. The adaptability of the scale of the applied technology and design is therefore of utmost importance. This approach guarantees not only frequent interaction with users, but also tangible output during the course of project execution.
While the consortium members handle their own data curation as far as possible, Subprogramme 4 proposes software and data structures to use for the purposes of the local capture, validation, analysis and storage of information. SP4's primary responsibility is ensuring access to data. Along with determining the way data and tools will be made available to GCP and the world, SP4 augments and supports the methods to implement the necessary technology.
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