Figshare

Definition

Figshare is a web-based platform that enables researchers to share, publish, and manage their research outputs in a citable manner. It promotes open data and open methods by providing a space where users can upload datasets, figures, and other research materials, making them accessible to the public and enhancing collaboration. By facilitating data sharing, figshare supports reproducibility and transparency in research, allowing others to validate findings and build upon existing work.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Figshare allows researchers to upload various types of research outputs including datasets, figures, and presentations, providing a comprehensive platform for sharing knowledge.
2. Every upload on figshare is assigned a DOI, which makes it easier for others to cite the work and ensures that the shared data can be reliably located over time.
3. The platform promotes open science practices by encouraging users to make their research publicly accessible, thereby fostering collaboration among researchers.
4. Figshare's user-friendly interface and integration with other tools streamline the process of sharing research outputs, making it accessible even for those who may not be tech-savvy.
5. Users can create profiles showcasing their research contributions on figshare, enhancing their visibility in the academic community and improving opportunities for networking.

Review Questions

• How does figshare facilitate the principles of open data and open methods in research?
  • Figshare facilitates open data by allowing researchers to share their datasets and findings with the public without restrictions. This promotes transparency and accessibility in research practices. By supporting open methods, figshare provides a platform where researchers can document their methodologies alongside their data, enabling others to replicate studies easily. The overall goal is to enhance collaboration within the scientific community while ensuring that valuable data is preserved for future use.
• In what ways does figshare contribute to the reproducibility of research findings?
  • Figshare contributes to reproducibility by providing a space where researchers can openly share all elements of their work, including datasets, methods, and related materials. By making these components publicly available with a DOI for citation purposes, it allows other researchers to access the same data and methodologies used in original studies. This access is crucial for validating results and allows others to replicate experiments accurately, thus strengthening the overall credibility of scientific research.
• Evaluate how figshare compares with other data repositories in terms of usability and impact on collaborative research.
  • Figshare stands out among other data repositories due to its user-friendly interface that simplifies the process of uploading and sharing research outputs. Unlike some repositories that may have complicated submission processes or restrictive access policies, figshare encourages open access while maintaining proper citation protocols through DOIs. This approach enhances its impact on collaborative research by not only promoting visibility for individual researchers but also fostering an environment where shared knowledge can lead to new discoveries and partnerships across disciplines.

Related terms

Open Data: Data that is made available to the public without restrictions, allowing anyone to use, modify, and share it freely.

Data Repository: A central place where data is stored and maintained for access and sharing, often used for preserving research outputs.

DOI (Digital Object Identifier): A unique alphanumeric string assigned to a digital object, such as a dataset or publication, providing a persistent link to its location on the internet.