RODBUK PK: Advancing Open Research through Monitoring and Upskilling at the Cracow University of Technology

RODBUK Cracow Open Research Data Repository is co-created by six leading universities in Cracow: AGH University of Science and Technology, University of Physical Education, Cracow University of Technology, University of Economics, Jagiellonian University, and the University of the National Education Commission. What sets RODBUK apart is its distinctive operational model: each university independently manages its own collection, yet all research data are seamlessly accessible to users through a unified aggregator: rodbuk.pl. Designed to support Open Science, RODBUK aims to collect, develop, archive, and provide open access to research data generated by researchers, PhD candidates, and students. This platform aligns with the FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) and adheres to OpenAIRE guidelines, ensuring data is well-indexed, reusable, and easily accessible to the scientific community and beyond.

The repository offers a wide array of features, including high-quality metadata, standardized data citation with Digital Object Identifiers (DOIs), customizable licensing options, and tools to manage embargo periods or restricted access. By fostering collaboration across disciplines and institutions, RODBUK promotes the dissemination of research outputs, enabling greater visibility and recognition of Polish science in the global landscape.

The poster will present RODBUK PK as a case study, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges associated with building and maintaining a multi-university open data repository. The presentation will be structured into five key sections:

1. Introduction to RODBUK: an overview of RODBUK’s mission, core assumptions, and operational statistics will provide insight into the repository’s scope and early achievements.

2. Opportunities and challenges: the advantages and obstacles encountered in co-creating and organizing a repository managed collectively by multiple universities, i.e. collaboration dynamics, technical considerations, and policy alignment.

3. Promotional strategy: insights into the promotional approach adopted to increase awareness, engage researchers, and encourage data deposition will be shared.

4. Institutional perspective: a closer look at Cracow University of Technology’s role as one of RODBUK’s founding members will illustrate the benefits and lessons learned from the perspective of a participating institution.

5. Conclusions and implications: the final section will summarize the key findings from RODBUK’s development journey, address broader implications for open data initiatives, and suggest future directions for similar repositories in Poland and internationally.

Expected outcomes for conference participants: RODBUK exemplifies the potential of open research data repositories to advance Open Science while addressing practical and organizational challenges. Its development sets a precedent for future initiatives, demonstrating the importance of collaboration in the pursuit of transparency and innovation in research.

Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of the processes involved in creating and managing RODBUK Cracow Open Research Data Repository. The discussion will inspire reflections on the benefits and limitations of collaborative efforts in research data sharing and offer valuable insights for implementing similar projects. Additionally, the poster will provide an opportunity to share experiences and best practices with peers during informal discussions.