Data Usage Metrics WG

Research data is increasingly recognized as an important output of scholarly research, however, there are not yet standardized or comprehensive research data metrics as there are with articles. The “Make Data Count” project hosted a Birds of a Feather at RDA Plenary 10 and recognized that many other groups are working in this space and interested in implementing a standardized set of data usage metrics. Lending expertise from various projects and research stakeholders, this WG, a part of the Publishing Data IG, aims to harness community buy-in of data usage metrics and drive widespread adoption. The first WG meeting focused on an overview of initiatives in the data usage metrics space and spent the majority of the time discussing scope for the WG. Two virtual meetings took place before RDA12 focused on refining scope and defining data usage metrics. The RDA12 session centered around talking about use cases for usage metrics, updates on the COUNTER Code of Practice for Research Data, and a discussion on barriers to adoption of standardized usage metrics. RDA13 had the largest attendance yet, overflowing a room as we presented on survey results (WG output) of current implementations of usage metrics and barries to adoption. At RDA14, WG members presented on the pitfalls and short comings of data usage metrics and further analyses of the survey. A discussion began about where the WG should head to as it transitions to maintenance mode. At RDA16 the WG had an interactive discussion at the plenary to finalize the future directions of the WG and receive community feedback on the recommendations. Prior to RDA17 the recommendation will be released and circulated.