Research Innovation Network: "Open to All?"

A recent publication from the Research Innovation Network and NESTA, “Open to All? - Case studies of openness in research” makes compelling reading.

The paper identifies the benefits of openness in research as:

• increasing the efficiency of research
• promoting scholarly rigour and enhancements to the quality of research
• enhancing visibility and scope for engagement
• enabling researchers to ask new research questions
• enhancing collaboration and community-building
• increasing the economic and social impact of research

But it also cites evidence about the real and perceived limitations of open working in research environments. Both sides of the case are backed up with substantial research through case studies in a number of fields.