Over the years, the KNMI has established itself as a research authority and recognised expert in weather, climate and seismology. The public demand for this expertise continues to increase. The KNMI intends to respond to this demand where possible in part to reinforce its position as a pioneering knowledge and research institute.

The KNMI is an agency of the Ministry of Transport, Public Works and Water Management. It regularly conducts externally funded research for such organisations as Knowledge for Climate, ESA, NSO-NIVR, EUMETSAT and EUMETNET.

Researchers recruited by the KNMI for temporary projects enter into an employment contract with the SWO for the duration of the project up to a maximum of five years.

The SWO was established in 1991.