Open access by default

Foster and support open access by default to research data and other research-relevant digital objects from public funding, that, to the greatest extent possible, is:

a. Timely, findable, user-friendly, and accessible by Internet;

b. Supported by regular curation and maintenance to prevent obsolescence of data format and software design and implementation;

c. Provided without discrimination as to the location or nationality of the user; and

d. Free of charge

As is the case in many countries already, National Data Policies and Research Data Management Policies should be in place which require researchers to determine an appropriate disclosure range  of publicly funded research data.

• In some cases, while part of a National Open Science strategies, enforcement may be done on a program by program basis 

• Ensure the scientific community learns what the process of opening data entails through training and  make it simple to follow to enhance applicability

• Engage in communications campaigns around Open Data Policy and collaborate with Universities where applicable

• Provide relevant infrastructures and services for depositing of research data / limited-time storage of data if necessary

• In order to recover costs associated with making data free of charge as well as data/digital object management and thereby overall sustainability , dedicated allowances may be provided as part of research grants 

• A working group may be established to co-ordinate policies across the research community and/or align them with global infrastructures and projects

• Open access could be made the default option of templates, documents and tools which researchers need to use in order to reduce the 

Although Open Data is a requirement of many National Data Policies and research data management policies, implementation tends to lag behind.

• The complementarity of open access to the FAIR principles should be clearly demonstrated. Openness of data is insufficient as high quality needs to be ensured for instance through compliance with FAIR.

• The cultural legacy of protective attitudes needs to be overcome to make open access the state of default.

• Striking the optimal balance between IP protection and openness is a challenge and should be decided on 

• Costs associated with management of data/digital objects may disincentivise sharing of data and the provision of open access.