Observational data sets for model development

The requirements of 'comprehensive' or 'compatible' observational data sets for developing and verifying models are examined. 'Compatibility' over the range of key parameters involves accuracy, spatial and temporal extent, an d resolution. The importance of documentation is emphasised on all aspects from experimental strategy to sensor calibration. Likewise, maximising acce ssibility involves listing in international directories, quick-view summary facilities as well as detailed data listings. Such accessibility generally includes: multi-media dissemination involving the Internet; printed papers and reports; CD ROMs. Experiences from two coastal observational experiments are reviewed: Holder ness on the UK cast coast and Sylt-Romo in the German Bight. These examples provide particular illustrations of the generalised principles. They exten d to usage of satellite, aircraft, radar, ship, surface and sea bed mooring s, and piles as platforms. Specific capabilities, limitations and idiosyncr asies of a range of instruments are described. Effective monitoring strateg ies must aim to exploit the associated synergies between this full range of platforms and instrumentation. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights r eserved.