The intergovernmental Group on Earth Observations (GEO) is leading a worldwide effort to build the Global Earth Observation System of Systems (GEOSS). GEOSS builds upon, and adds value to, functioning Earth observation systems, in part by working to enhance interoperability among components contributed to GEOSS. Central to this goal is the maintenance of various databases describing GEOSS components and their interfaces, and the standards, protocols and other specifications enabling interoperability between them.

The GEO Architecture and Data Committee (ADC) established a Standards and Interoperability Forum (SIF) to facilitate the interchange of information and the development of recommendations for standards and interoperability in GEOSS. The SIF will also oversee the Standards and Interoperability Registry. The purpose of the SIF is to provide advice, expertise and impartial guidance on issues relating to standards and interoperability for GEOSS. The goal of the SIF is to enable ever greater degrees of interoperability among GEOSS components through facilitation, technical analysis, advocacy and education. The SIF is composed of experts nominated by GEO Members and Participating Organizations, and will also draw on subject matter experts globally to support its objectives and goals.