This report examines the issues related to the formation of an integrated National Information Infrastructure (NII) from the perspectives of the education and research communities. The report presents a vision of the future for the NII based on an Open Data Network (ODN). The report begins by examining the background and the visions for the future of U.S. networking. It moves on to the ODN addressing the following issues: the criteria, objectives, and benefits of the ODN; the structure of the ODN; quality of service; the role of standards in the shaping of the NII; security of the ODN; and areas for further research on the NII. The research, education, and library communities are examined in order to identify their networking needs and roles in the NII. Principles for the design and implementation of the NII are identified including: equal access to the NII; access to information on the NII; privacy; intellectual property protection; and other ethical concerns. Finally, the issue of funding for the NII is examined as well as the role the government will and should play in shaping the NII. (JLB)