Adopting the Global Open Research Commons (GORC) Model – SURF
Adoption Factsheet
Outputs Adopted: Global Open Research Commons (GORC) International Model
Related RDA Groups: GORC International Model WG
Adopting Organisation: SURF
The RDA Output adopted
The Global Open Research Commons (GORC) International Model is a framework designed to facilitate the development of interoperable research commons, promoting open and accessible research for the public good. It provides a common language and structure for stakeholders involved in research commons development, offering guidance on essential elements, attributes, and key performance indicators. The model is not prescriptive but rather aims to establish a foundation for building and connecting research commons globally.
This Adoption Story was created with the support of the RDA TIGER project.
What was the challenge that you addressed?
The challenge being addressed by SURF by implementing the GORC International Model was the lack of clarity and consistency when discussing “infrastructure” in research contexts, which could refer to anything from physical equipment to communities of practice. The GORC model helps to address this issue by providing a structured, comprehensive framework to explicitly define and organize key aspects such as governance, sustainability, and tools. It helps bring coherence and credibility to these discussions, especially with its visual representation and endorsement by the RDA community, making it easier to communicate and gain trust among stakeholders.
The adoption process
The adoption process was straightforward: we simply started using the GORC model, focusing mainly on the nine elements. A specific use case involved conducting interviews with stakeholders and using the model to organize their responses, helping structure an inventory effectively.
Benefits and impact of adoption
The GORC model improved the quality and consistency of the information gathered, enhanced understanding and communication of outcomes, and made stakeholder conversations more effective and engaging. It provided a helpful structure for explaining the purpose and connections behind our work.
What lessons did you learn?
A key lesson learned was that applying the GORC model requires practice, especially in determining what qualifies as a “commons” and at what level of granularity. The SURF members involved in this work noted that over-using or loosely applying the concept can reduce its value. Another challenge was interpreting the nine elements accurately. Users often rely on their own understanding, which can vary. While that’s acceptable in ad hoc use, consistent application requires aligning interpretations with the official documentation to maintain clarity and quality.
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