Users help to improve e-Research

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Everything from the transistor to the internet started off as ‘a solution without a problem’, and then developed into global significance through the moulding and adaptation that results from user engagement. The Engage project plans to use this phenomenon to its advantage. It will find out how to improve e-Research by listening to the people who know what’s needed: the users.

Over the last six months, the Engage project (one of three JISC-funded community engagement projects along with e-IUS and e-Uptake) has interviewed over thirty researchers to find out about their experience of e-Research. This wide group of researchers represents every level of e-Research ability – from novice to old hand – and a truly staggering range of disciplines.

It’s already possible to see some broad themes developing. Novice users want easier access to information about what is ‘out there’ and how it can benefit them, whereas more experienced users often want new software functionality.

The big issues raised by the first round of Engage interviews will lead to new e-Research software, training and support. This process can be followed on the Engage website, which will track issues from the interviews through to their conclusion. The website will also act as repository of e-Research information that can then be used by researchers looking for solutions to their own problems.

The second round of Engage interviews has already been organised, with over fifty new interviewees having been identified. This level of user engagement will provide the perfect conditions for OMII-UK and the NGS to mould and adapt e-Research technology to match users’ needs.

If you would like to be interviewed by Engage, visit the website for details.

Simon Hettrick

www.engage.ac.uk