Research Data Sharing and Valorization

7The National Repository Option

Louki-Géronimo RICHOU¹ and Joachim SCHÖPFEL²

¹ Sénat, Paris, France

² University of Lille, Villeneuve d’Ascq, France

7.1. Introduction

To date (2020/2021), France does not have a research data repository with a national focus. This chapter analyzes the demand for this and describes the functionalities and characteristics of such a system. Some countries have established a repository like this, while others have not. Why have they chosen to do so? And what are the alternatives?

7.2. The concept

The first obvious need of researchers funded by a structure is visibility. This is not just the visibility of their results but also of their underlying data. A complementary need has arisen with the increasing computerization of underlying data: protecting and securing data. Each state is interested in the cultural influence, economic profitability, computer security and digital sovereignty of its research sector. Thus, the challenge of having a centralized state tool for the storage and use of data has arisen in various European countries. This is the whole idea of a “national repository”. Research data repositories are online services that allow data sets to be deposited, described and preserved. They can also include analytical tools that open up greater or lesser possibilities for research with the same data, and even tools for publication and dissemination. As of June 2020, there were more than 2,500 different research data repositories, listed ...