The National Weather Service is defining a new concept of operations that will enable forecast offices to focus more efficiently on high impact events while ensuring delivery of routine products and services.

This new concept of operations implies many business changes in local forecast operations. However, it will also require many significant changes in the IT systems used to support NWS operations. This paper defines the IT changes and system tools that will be needed to make the new concept of operations a reality. The new AWIPS architecture is a critical foundation for new capabilities and functionality that is going to be required. Collaboration, improved grid editing and broader and more efficient access to all NOAA environmental information are critical components to the implementation of the new concept of operations.