Inter-unit collaboration in developing repository services – the case of E-thesis at the University of Helsinki

University of Helsinki runs a relatively complex DSpace-based E-thesis service. The service utilizes workflows and enables submission of Master's and Bachelor Theses for review, the review process of the theses as well as storing and publishing of the theses. During the past five years the E-thesis service has been developed in ever closer cooperation between the University Library and the Student Administration. During that period about 10000 Theses have been submitted, evaluated and stored using the system. We argue that this collaboration has been very beneficial, even necessary for the successful development of the service to meet the demands of the faculties, the administration and the library. The close involvement of the student services means that the development has been able to tap into the user feedback and networks available in the administration. From a broader perspective, our experience shows the benefits of inter-unit collaboration in developing and maintaining repository services. There are many types of resources and expertise, which can be combined in a fruitful way in the collaborative approach.