Digital data is, by its nature, fragile. Geospatial data, with all of its complexities, is particularly difficult to maintain over time. Furthermore, with the shift towards web services and API-based access to geospatial data and map resources, there is no guarantee that an image or dataset viewed through a service yesterday will be available tomorrow.

While most mapping applications require only the most current data, temporal analysis is becoming increasingly important in applications such as real estate analysis, economic planning, and site selection. The challenge of keeping today's data around to support temporal analysis tomorrow will be addressed in the context of a partnership with the Library of Congress focusing on preservation of digital geospatial data as part of the National Digital Information Infrastructure and Preservation Program (NDIIPP). The project is centered on NC OneMap, a statewide infrastructure which enables access to OGC-based map services from counties, cities, and state agencies and serves as a component part of the National Map.