Function: The Observing Services Division (OBSD) develops and maintains plans, policies, procedures and standards for surface and upper air observing services approved or provided by the NWS. OBSD manages the NWS Cooperative Observer Program. Staff monitors and ensures field compliance with policies, procedures and standards. The division oversees development and implementation of observing systems and enhancements to ensure changes comply with standards and service requirements. Staff work with other service and operations divisions. The division leads one or more NWS cross-cut observing IWTs to develop observation user requirements and define agency solutions.

OBSD provides guidance to Office of Operational Services and the Office of Science and Technology on system specifications, designs, prototypes and operational tests. OBSD recommends changes in networks or facilities to meet data requirements. Staff develop plans to implement operational data acquisition systems. The Division monitors test programs, evaluates reports and recommends whether to adopt new equipment and procedures. In coordination with other NWS divisions, OSBD staff identify and analyze operational problems, develop proposals to remedy deficiencies, and set priorities for correcting deficiencies.