The AKN represents the added value of the contributions from all the AKN nodes.  The AKN is therefore envisioned as an entity emerging from the network of nodes, scaling up the contribution from each node to encompass the entire Western Hemisphere.   The establishment of the network requires homogenization of databases, documentation describing these databases, and documentation on the deployment of analysis and visualization tools.  So, the AKN must, at the node and at a global scale:

o   “Federate” local data with region and continent-wide datasets through an exchange schema

o   Establish standard methods for documenting datasets

o   Establish and maintain means for sharing analysis and visualization tools

o   Provide tool development environments – open source, “wiki” environments