The Perception of Library and Information Science (LIS) Professionals about Research Data Management Services in University Libraries of Pakistan

Abstract

Abstract Research data management services (RDMS) is considered as an emerging and groundbreaking area for research libraries. A large number of studies focused on researchers’ perspectives of how they perform research data management practices. There are some studies that examine this important area of research from library and information science (LIS) professionals’ context, especially developing countries like Pakistan. Hence, this study addresses the gap and investigate the RDMS training needs, motivational factors, possible hindrances, and key reasons to support RDMS. A survey method was used and a self-developed questionnaire was prepared using Google Docs survey. The questionnaire link was shared with LIS professionals considering purposive sampling technique. The study highlights the main RDMS supporting reasons, needed training areas, best methods to get training, the motivational factors, and possible hindrances while planning and implementing RDMS. This study fills the gap and addresses research data management literature in developing countries’ context, especially Pakistan, and established that RDMS are poorly observed in developing countries and require some drastic steps to be launched and improved. Higher Education Commission/departments, university administrations, and donor agencies take such initiatives that research data should be openly available through repositories and the maximum number of training opportunities should be provided to LIS professionals.