The Forum recognises that, in order to promote open access of research data it is necessary to assess the existing capacity to do so and then plan mechanisms to support training and development.
Our solution
The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, on behalf of the Public Health Research Data Forum, commissioned Whythawk, the Open Knowledge Foundation, and Frost & Sullivan to assess labour market dynamics for people who possess relevant expertise, and identify current challenges and support gaps in research data management. The project also seeks to compile an inventory of existing training and capacity building activities relevant to management and sharing of public health research data. The project is a senior consulting and market research role.
Whythawk project managed, developed the research methodology and criteria (including selection of the countries for research), aggregated the research developed by Frost & Sullivan and prepared the final report and recommendations for the client. The final report is available as a Creative Commons licensed publically-accessible report.
Outcomes
The findings of this study have led to a number of recommendations offered for future development and implementation. The ultimate objectives and aspirations for ensuring the availability of public health research data to the scientific community will be achieved through collaboration involving funders, research institutions, publishers, and a diversity of service providers.
