The NPDN is collecting diagnostic records from plant diagnostic laboratories at Land Grant Universities and state departments of agriculture. The collection will eventually include records from private diagnostic laboratories that choose to participate. The network will create an extraordinary opportunity for the sharing and analysis of diagnostic information on an unprecedented scale. The goal of the NPDN data system is to enable complex pattern analysis of the diagnostic information collected in order to detect anomalies, thus allowing recognition of new outbreaks earlier than is currently possible. This process will link with other existing databases on a real time basis. The analysis tool envisioned will be used to help determine if new pests and diseases are intentionally introduced, accidentally introduced, or variant but newly emerged from native populations.