Analyzing research data repositories (RDR) from BRICS nations: a comprehensive study

PurposeThis study aims to examine the current status and different characteristic features of research data repositories established by BRICS nations in order to understand the research data infrastructure within BRICS countries.Design/methodology/approachThe data were collected from the re3data repository (http://www.re3data.org/), focusing specifically on BRICS nations. The data were analyzed to grasp the current status of research data repositories in BRICS countries. The dataset was retrieved on March 2, 2024. A total of 195 Research Data Repositories (RDRs) originating from BRICS countries were identified and selected for comprehensive analysis.FindingsAs of March 2, 2024, re3data.org indexes a total of 3,192 Research Data Repositories (RDRs) worldwide, with BRICS nations contributing 195. China leads among BRICS nations, followed by India, Russia, and Brazil. Scientific and Statistical Formats are the most shared content categories, followed closely by Standard Office Documents. There is notable diversity in the subjects covered by RDRs across BRICS nations. English is the primary interface language, followed by Chinese and Portuguese. “House, tailor-made” software is widely used for creating RDRs, followed by Dataverse and DSpace. Fourteen metadata standards are found, with Dublin Core metadata being the most prevalent, followed by the DataCite Metadata Scheme. Most repositories are disciplinary, followed by institutional ones. Most repositories specify data upload types, with “restricted” being the most common, followed by closed types. Open access is predominant in data access, followed by restricted access and embargo periods, while a small number restrict access entirely.Originality/valueThe present study will help gauge the strengths and weaknesses of the RDRs of BRICS nations and also learn how open these RDRs are for data access and upload provisions. The study contributes to a broader comprehension of the accessibility and usability of research data within the BRICS community, ultimately fostering greater transparency, collaboration, and knowledge dissemination within the scientific community, thus fostering greater innovation and advancement in research endeavors. The study provides a nuanced understanding of the research data infrastructure within BRICS nations, highlighting key trends, strengths, and areas for potential improvement.