The National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI) is a means to assemble geographic data nationwide to serve a variety of users. GIS applications of many different disciplines have a recurring need for a few themes of data.  The framework is a collaborative community based effort in which these commonly needed data themes are developed, maintained, and integrated by public and private organizations within a geographic area.  The framework is one of the key building blocks and forms the data backbone of the NSDI.  The framework concept was developed by representatives of county, regional, State, Federal, and other organizations under the auspices of the Federal Geographic Data Committee (FGDC). Local, regional, state and federal government organizations and private companies see the framework as a way to share resources, improve communications, and increase efficiency.

Framework has three apects: Data, Procedures and technology for building and using the data, and Institutional relationships and business practices that support the environment.

The framework is designed to faciliate production and use of geographic data, to reduce costs and improve service and decision making.

For more information on the framework parts, see below or look at the framework factsheet

• Read about an Overview of Framework 
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
  
• Learn about FGDC Framework Projects
  

Reference Material

• Framework Introduction and Guide (Handbook)  
  
• Framework Training Materials
  

Federal Agency Leads for Framework Themes

• Geodetic Control -- National Geodetic Survey

• Cadastral -- Bureau of Land Management

• Orthoimagery -- U. S. Geological Survey

• Elevation -- U. S. Geological Survey

• Hydrography -- U. S. Geological Survey

• Administrative units -- U. S. Census Bureau

• Transportation -- Department of Transportation