Repository Support

DRIVER caters for the needs of data and service providers. Data and service providers are considered very important stakeholder groups as far as the infrustructural and organizational aspects of repository development are concerned. By engaging with these two key stakeholder groups, DRIVER disseminates the benefits of adopting the DRIVER Guidelines, services and underlying support networks. DRIVER is considered the largest initiative of its kind in helping to enhance repository development worldwide. By providing a programme of training for key stakeholder groups, it is anticipated that it will help build an environment in which the number of repositories will successfully multiply.

Specifically, it is relevant to both groups – data and service providers- that different interpretations of repository standards make it necessary to harmonise data on an aggregated level. The DRIVER Guidelines aim to assist  in order to ensure integration with DRIVER. Support will therefore take the form of training material, consultation and guidance, with DRIVER helpdesk being one of the key initiatives.

Maintaining an adequate support programme is extremely important  because it will offer advice, guidance and referral systems that reflect the needs of repository developers.

The programme for repository support for data providers includes:

1. General information made available on setting up a repository. The material provided will draw on existing resources within DRIVER but also from outside the consortium. This information will be available on the DRIVER websites and by referrals to organisations and/ or available software where applicable.

2. Provision of E-learning material such as online tutorials and leaflets.
   

    

3. Use of on-line tools. The DRIVER consortium is developing tools which aim in assisting the repository managers to conform to the DRIVER overall standards (e.g.  the Repository Validator tool ).

4. Video conferences in order to meet specific needs of data providers.

5. Face-to-face events,  the first one taking the form of a Summer School in August 2008: (The University of Tilburg, TICER  - Tilburg Innovation Centre for Electronic Resources).

6. Use of the DRIVER support wiki, which can be reached at the DRIVER support site.

7. Use of the DRIVER helpdesk, to cater for the needs of data providers for a more personal way, through direct email communication, of addressing certain issues.

For service providers, the programme includes:

1. Use of the DRIVER support wiki, which can be reached at the DRIVER support site.

2. Use of the helpdesk referral, to cater for the needs of service providers for a more personal way, through direct email communication, of addressing certain issues.

3. Personalized technical support and assistance, to take the form of direct communication via email or other common developers’ exchange/communication mechanisms.

4. A face-to-face event, to be organised in conjunction with the Summer School for data providers.