RDM Survey Update
The RDM Task Force survey is now closed. Thank you to all the researchers who participated; your input is invaluable as we move into the next phase of this project.
About the Survey
The Task Force recently conducted a brief survey to gauge researcher perceptions and current practices regarding data access, storage, and preservation. The goal was to better understand the diverse needs of our community and identify where researchers feel supported or encounter hurdles.
The insights gathered will help us:
- Understand the current research data landscape across the university.
- Explore ways to better align with FAIR principles (findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable).
- Discuss how to better support researchers in an era of evolving compliance requirements.
Next Steps
Based on data from this survey, the RDM Task Force has produced a report titled, Findings and Recommendations on Data Access, Storage, and Preservation.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Survey
What is an institutional repository (IR)?
An institutional repository is a “green” open access archive for preserving and sharing scholarly research. IRs may host materials such as:
- Dissertations and theses
- Book chapters and journal articles
- Lectures, presentations, and reports
- Research datasets
At GW, we currently have three institutional repositories:
- The Health Sciences Research Commons managed by Himmelfarb Health Sciences Library, for the health sciences schools.
- GW ScholarSpace managed by GW Libraries & Academic Innovation for the broader GW community.
- Scholarly Commons managed by the Jacob Burns Law Library for Law School scholarship.
However, none of these repositories are designed to store or preserve research data. GW does not currently operate an institutional data repository.
What is a metadata catalog?
A metadata catalog is a searchable index that helps researchers, students, and the public discover data created or used by GW researchers, even if those data are stored elsewhere.
Think of it like a library catalog, but for datasets instead of books.
GW does not currently maintain a metadata catalog for research data.
Why does this matter?
Growing expectations from funders, publishers, and research communities means that GW must support our researchers by planning for:
- Long-term data preservation – protecting valuable data from loss or obsolescence.
- Compliance with FAIR principles – making data Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable, according to current best practices.
- Increasing demands regarding controlled data and cybersecurity practices
- Meeting funder and publisher mandates – many now require open access to research data.
- Improved research visibility – metadata catalogs and institutional data repositories can increase discoverability and impact of the data.
- Support for collaborative and reproducible research.
What is the Research Data Management Task Force?
The Research Data Management Task Force is a cross-campus collaboration that includes:
- Himmelfarb Health Sciences Library
- Information Technology
- Libraries and Academic Innovation
- Office of the Vice Provost for Research
We’re working to understand GW’s current data practices, challenges, and needs. Your response to this survey will help make your voice heard, and inform future decisions around data storage, access, preservation, and policy.
