Survey research and in-depth interviews focused on the attitudes and practices of researchers

Universities around the world are looking to improve the infrastructure that supports their eResearch. However, infrastructure means more than just high quality ICT. While supercomputing facilities and high speed internet connections are crucial components for successful eResearch, also important is the availability of trained technical staff to support researchers in both complex applications and networking. Sound data management practices are also vital to ensure that all research project data is both readily accessible to researchers on demand and safeguarded for the long term, so that the data can be revisited by the original research team, or eventually made available to other researchers. Academic culture, institutional capabilities and individual skills are critical components if we are to move towards a more effective research system where the potential for eResearch can be optimised. In the second half of 2007, The University of Queensland conducted a survey of the data management practices of all researchers. The survey was open to academics and post-graduate students. It sought feedback on current data management practices, including the use of formal plans, and the use of backup systems for safeguarding research datasets. The survey also aimed to identify gaps in researchers' knowledge of training and support systems currently available to them. Responses to the survey were designed to feed into future planning for eResearch infrastructure provision at the University via an eResearch Working Party which collaboratively drafted the original survey instrument. The University of Queensland followed the survey with a series of focus groups. Groups were made up of individuals who had indicated in the survey their willingness to participate in an ongoing eResearch reference group. Survey responses were probed in much greater