The guide encourages the adoption of WMO/ICAO standards where applicable. An important factor taken into account is the cost of provision of observation compared with measurable benefits likely to be derived from a particular application.--Publisher's description.

This publication provides users with practical information on observational matters supplementing that already contained in the WMO technical regulations and other relevant publications. It also contains the description of practices, procedures and specifications to be followed concerning the GOS.--Publisher's description.