The German Data Forum (RatSWD) and Research Data Infrastructure: Status Quo and Quality Management

Abstract

The dynamic network of 31 research data centres (RDCs) accredited by the German Data Forum (Rat für Sozial- und Wirtschaftsdaten, RatSWD) provides science and research with comprehensive access to quality-assured and sensitive data. The annual number of processing requests and publications indicate that the data and services provided by RDCs are in high demand. They also underscore the importance of the research data centres for the social, behavioural and economic sciences. As shown in two new publications by the German Data Forum, the research data infrastructure is highly effective and can serve as a best practice model on a national and international level.