Strategic Planning for Research Data Services

Abstract

EDITOR'S SUMMARY

Libraries are increasingly being asked to provide data management support of various types. Without a single approach or standard, each institution must devise a strategic plan for data management support in terms of local requirements. A strategic plan helps to align available skills and services with the needs of users and to build critical support. Planning must start with research on user needs and any pertinent unique local information. Based on an explicit need, the plan should specify a vision for data services using identified resources for a specified time period. A strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis can help to identify internal and external factors to be considered. Actionable and reasonable goals should be formulated and outlined. The strategic plan should encourage stakeholders to work in concert, include outcome metrics and be updated every few years.