Sharing research records and research data: Findings from a research project in higher education

This paper focuses on issues surrounding the sharing of research records, research data and networking of systems. They arose from a 2003 Joint Information Systems Committee (JISC) funded research project undertaken at the School of Informatics, Northumbria University. Five research projects undertaken within the School were studied and a total of 14 project researchers plus research directors and research administrators at school and central levels were interviewed. A group comprising the Pro-Vice Chancellor (Research), research directors and research administrators acted as an expert panel. The project itself also formed a small case study. Issues identified by the participants covered: confidentiality, digital records, joining up of people and systems involved, primary research data, resources, retention management, re-use/repurposing of data and information, roles/responsibilities, security, sharing/use and systems, covering both processes and procedures as well as IT systems. Four main solutions were offered to address these issues: guidelines, standards and policies; training; systems; resources. One crucial requirement to emerge was the need to share research records and data, both inside and outside the university. This could be achieved through the development of a virtual records centre/archive. The implementation of such a facility is not insignificant and is discussed with reference to relevant national initiatives.