The Indonesian National Scientific Repository: A Case Study of Research Data Sharing

Abstract

Abstract This study discusses the sharing of research data through the Repositori Ilmiah Nasional, the Indonesian national scientific repository, which is managed by the Center for Scientific Data and Documentation, Indonesian Institute of Sciences (Pusat Dokumentasi dan Informasi Ilmiah, Lembaga Ilmu Pengetahuan Indonesia, known by the abbreviation PDDI-LIPI). The purpose of this study is to describe the process of research data sharing and identify supporting factors and obstacles faced in that process. This study uses a qualitative approach, with a case study method. Data collection techniques included field observations and observations on the repository system; semi-structured interviews with several informants, including researchers as well as development and librarian teams; and, analysis of policy documents and guidelines. Through these investigations, we discovered that while the Center has developed a new DataVerse repository system to enable research data sharing, there are still several issues that impede the repository from meeting institutional goals for increased data access. There is a need for additional training and socialization of researchers, to encourage and motivate them to share their research data through this service. Additionally, staff members need to gain competence in the management and curation of data. Researchers and librarians involved in research data sharing activities still face various obstacles in the areas of policy, service visibility, and promotion. This research is expected to increase the awareness of researchers, librarians, and repository development teams about each other’s needs and to aid them in collaborating with each other to optimize the sharing of research of data through the repository.