About BioSys
BioSys – the Western Australian Biological Survey Database – is a web-based repository for the Department’s biological survey data. The system at Version 1.0 is currently a proof-of-concept, funded by the Kimberley Landscape Conservation Initiative (LCI), and supporting that initiative’s immediate data requirements.
Biological survey databases typically manage highly complex and structured data. In this initial version we have implemented data fields and workflow to specifically support the Kimberley LCI. In future versions, resources permitting, BioSys will be extended to support a much broader range of ecological data types and sampling protocols, including localised and regional survey snapshots.
BioSys runs in a web browser within the Department’s internal network. Data is currently uploaded to the system via supplied spreadsheet templates, permitting offline data entry. Published BioSys data can be downloaded by any authorised staff member via their normal login. Data will also be warehoused in NatureMap, subject to custodial approval.
Acknowledgements
BioSys was developed at the instigation of the Director, Science and Conservation Division (SCD) using LCI funding. It was a key deliverable of the Office of Information Management’s (OIM) Knowledge Management Initiative, a highly successful joint venture between SCD, OIM and other sections of the Department. Both SCD and OIM contributed significant in-kind resources to this project, including project management and user liaison. Gaia Resources and OIM provided system development.
Feedback
Your feedback and suggestions are welcome. For queries regarding BioSys aims, objectives and future directions, contact SCD’s Ecoinformatics Unit Manager. For access to data, or technical queries contact the system custodian.