Social > Help shape the next generation of weather, climate and water information

Help shape the next generation of weather, climate and water information

As Australia's most trusted source of weather, climate and water information, the Bureau of Meteorology delivers the most accurate and up-to-date news and data directly into users' hands. That is why we are about to launch the most extensive public research exercise in our history, to discover precisely what information you require, where, how you are getting it – and what we can do to make it more relevant, accessible, and potentially life-saving.

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Tell us what you think

Whether you're having trouble sourcing a regional weather forecast on our website, finding tide predictions on your marine radio, or even have a bright idea on how we can use social media during severe weather events – we want to hear from you.

As expanding communication services and devices provide ever more limitless possibilities for real-time information, the Bureau is dedicated to developing a clear understanding of our users' needs and expectations – to help us stay ahead of emerging technology, and help you stay ahead of the weather.

In April and May, research firm, Global Reviews, will be conducting an extensive series of market research activities, including an online survey, targeted interviews and focus groups, to find out how we can better support your everyday information needs – whether you are at home, in the workplace, or out and about.

This is the perfect opportunity for you to tell us what you think about the services and products we provide, their importance in a more connected and climate-conscious age, and ways in which they can be enhanced and expanded in the years to come.

Questions that demand answers

With such a wide range of communication channels, and growing public demand for up-to-the-minute, location-based information, the Bureau is determined that its own technological development be based upon real and practical user needs.

What are the questions that our users – be they farmers, engineers, pilots, fishermen, emergency personnel, or concerned citizens – want answered on a daily basis? What communications devices and channels do they most commonly use to seek these answers? And are we providing all the relevant information at our disposal, in the most practical, meaningful and accessible manner?

Interviews and focus groups with industry and the public will look at a broad range of issues, from the potentials and pitfalls of different communication channels, to changing information needs during severe weather events, and the growing role of social media.

Information for making decisions

Whether you access the Bureau's services simply for today's weather forecast, or rely on more detailed data for professional, navigational or safety-related applications, chances are that most of us are fairly regular users of the Bureau's weather, climate and water information.

We want to know more about your understanding and expectations of this information, and the specific details you require to make decisions in times of need – so we can provide our information when and where you need it, and in the best format.

With every tool in the modern communications arsenal – from fax to radio, SMS to social media, email to snail mail – we want to know, clearly and comprehensively, what works best for you.