A recent report reveals that researchers in the U.S. and various other countries encounter insufficient support when it comes to openly sharing their data. The State of Open Data Report 2023, a collaborative effort between Digital Science, Figshare, and publisher Springer Nature, highlights that nearly three-quarters of researchers state they've never received assistance in planning, managing, or sharing their research data.
Insights from the survey, which engaged over 6,000 researchers across diverse fields, emphasize the notable lack of support for open data sharing as a key takeaway. The research community acknowledges the collective responsibility to propel accessible research forward and leverage emerging technologies for greater open science, according to Harsh Jegadeesan, Chief Publishing Officer of Springer Nature. Facilitating easy and open access to all facets of research supports accessibility, usability, and reusability—a crucial aspect in ensuring research can be built upon and reaches those capable of effecting change to address global challenges.
The survey also explored researchers' awareness and utilization of generative artificial intelligence for data collection, processing, and metadata creation. While a majority had heard of this technology, most respondents had not yet employed it in their research endeavors.
