The developments delivered by CONFESS are staged into three distinct phases during the project, which are also linked to the feasibility for operational uptake by C3S

• STAGE 1: M24 into the project. At this stage, there will be developments ready for uptake by ERA6, the reanalysis in the next phase of C3S, reanalysis. This is the case for harmonized records of LAI and LC, and harmonized CMIP6-CAMS tropospheric aerosols. These developments will also be suitable for inclusion in seasonal forecasting prototypes, but evaluation for this purpose may not be complete.
• STAGE 2: M30 into the project. At this stage, there will be developments ready for uptake in seasonal forecast systems. This the case for harmonized records of LAI and LC, harmonized CMIP6-CAMS tropospheric aerosols and improved treatment of volcanic aerosols.
• STAGE 3: M36. At the end of the project the developments delivered in STAGE 1 and STAGE 2 will have been fully documented, adding authoritative value to the products delivered by C3S. Developments further along the line of C3S evolution (biomass burning and prognostic vegetation) will be completed and documented, together with a report on recommendations for future operational uptake.