The vision for ADBC is a permanent repository of digitized information from all U.S. biological collections that leads to new discoveries through research and a better understanding and appreciation of biodiversity through improved outreach, which then leads to improved environmental and economic policies. Creation of the permanent digitized repository is occurring in four stages:
- An initial stage where the effort to digitize U.S. biological collections is catalyzed by funding from NSF and enabled by iDigBio activities that foster collaborations, identify priorities, demonstrate the value of biodiversity and collections, and generate information on best practices related to standards, workflows, and data management.
- An intermediate stage where digitization at Thematic Collections Networks (TCNs), Partners to Existing Networks (PENs), and other participating institutions/networks improves methods and strategies and demonstrates the scientific and societal benefits of validated and readily accessible data.
- A third stage in which the vision for ADBC is realized through participation by all U.S. institutions with biological collections.
- A fourth stage in which digitization is a routine and sustained practice in all institutions with biological collections, and the national database is easily accessible as an up-to-date source of information on biodiversity.
