Abstract: IRIS is an important international academic research institution in the field of seismology, focusing on seismic observation. It has an important contribution and far-reaching influence on the development of seismology, and its development is highly concerned by seismology scholars from all over the world. The author introduces the strategic plan of IRIS （2016—2020） from the aspects of strategic foundation, strategic implementation, strategic priorities, action items, etc., aiming to provide a useful reference for scholars who formulate our country’s “14th Five-Year Plan” for earthquake disaster prevention and mitigation plan. These strategic priorities of IRIS are clear and feasible, such as ① maintaining the diversity and advancement of observation facilities; ② enhancing the ability to deploy instruments in extreme environments; ③ developing new technologies for data reception, processing, storage and service, and providing cutting-edge data management and data processing capabilities for maintaining leading capabilities in data management and applications area. These new technologies include data service technology （Dirt-to Desktop, D2D） , diversity comprehensive observation and deployment technology, and disaster prediction, hazard assessment and response technology, and intensive seismic observation, high-performance computing and data processing technology; ④ promoting and disseminating advanced seismic technology, developing high-level data products; ⑤ carrying out diversified academic activities for attracting talents from different fields of scientific research to work at IRIS. These strategic priorities of IRIS are worthy of our study and reference.