Open Research Community launched
The Open Research Community (ORC), an interactive platform launched this week after a test phase, offers users the opportunity to expand their professional networks on the topics of open access (OA), open research and open science.
In addition to blog posts and up-to-date information in the form of policy papers and research reports, the ORC offers the opportunity to interact with other experts in the network (e.g., via video panels). An initiative of Knowledge Unlatched (KU), the ORC is free to use. Its stated mission is to support the worldwide exchange of information on future-oriented research and OA publishing by bringing together libraries, publishers and researchers.
‘Even before the spread of the coronavirus, our colleagues in libraries, publishing houses and research funding organisations have been asking for better forms of collaboration beyond conference visits,’ said Pablo B. Markin, ORC’s Manager. ‘With the ORC, we want to provide the infrastructure and a forum for this purpose.’
Powered by Zapnito, the ORC seeks input from key stakeholders, features expert-driven content in the form of articles, discussion pieces and commentary, and aims to reflect the backgrounds and expertise of various user groups. Through its community, research and university involvements, the ORC focuses on knowledge sharing and informing users on OA-related topics, including publishing industry developments.
‘We have been aware of Zapnito for a few years and understood the need for a dedicated community platform that could drive engagement and foster collaboration amongst our different user groups,’ said Sven Fund, managing director at KU. ‘With the launch of the ORC, that vision will become a reality, as we leverage Zapnito’s technology to bring together librarians, publishers, researchers, authors and institutions under a united goal.’
Charles Thiede, CEO of Zapnito, added: ‘Zapnito is thrilled to be working with KU to further increase access to leading research and content, and facilitate connections within the expert community. The ORC represents a new chapter in publishing – one of greater collaboration, knowledge sharing and connection between the world’s greatest minds.’
