Research data and libraries: who does what

Kevin Ashley

doi:10.1629/2048-7754.25.2.155

Abstract

A range of external pressures are causing research data management (RDM) to be an increasing concern at senior level in universities and other research institutions. But as well as external pressures, there are also good reasons for establishing effective research data management services within institutions which can bring benefits to researchers, their institutions and those who publish their research. In this article some of these motivating factors, both positive and negative, are described. Ways in which libraries can play a role – or even lead – in the development of RDM services that work within the institution and as part of a national and international research data infrastructure are also set out.

Highlights

The primary motivating factor, the one that would cause us to care about this issue even without any other motivation, is data re-use
Intelligent decisions need to be taken to balance the cost of data generation, the cost of retention and the potential value of re-use
Data re-use can occur outside academic research; re-use in learning and teaching is one example throw the data away and generate it again when needed.”

Summary

Introduction

The primary motivating factor, the one that would cause us to care about this issue even without any other motivation, is data re-use. Intelligent decisions need to be taken to balance the cost of data generation, the cost of retention and the potential value of re-use. The cost of data generation, the cost of retention and the potential value of re-use.

Results

Conclusion