This document specifies general requirements and guidance for metagenomics-dedicated sample preparation, and generating and analysing metagenomics sequence data obtained from massive parallel sequencing platforms. The specified metagenomics process includes the following stages:

a)      

sampling strategy and process, including type, storage, transportation, extraction, quality;

b)      

nucleic acid library preparation

c)       

design and review process including sequencing strategy and assessment;

d)      

database construction;

e)      

bioinformatics analysis and report

f)        

validation and verification for bioinformatics pipeline, and database

This document applies to laboratories and research organizations.