Abstract
Libraries and Learning Services (LLS) at the University of Auckland (UoA), New Zealand, is recognised by the institution for expertise in scholarly information developments. Our ability to respond to rapid changes within the research ecosystem is evidenced by LLS business ownership of Symplectic (UoA’s research outputs system), support for the national performance-based research assessment (PBRF) and initiatives like ORCID, Bibliometrics, open access and research data management.
This paper will look at significant progress made since the IATUL 2015 conference paper on developing strategic research services. Our specialist technical and client services play a key role in achieving UoA’s strategic objectives for growing and disseminating research that has impact and value.
In 2017 our focus is on supporting PBRF, a six-yearly government assessment of tertiary institutions aimed at rewarding excellence. PBRF has a great effect on the UoA’s revenue and reputation. We are on the PBRF Steering Group, PBRF Advisory Group and faculty working groups. Our LLS PBRF Project Lead is responsible for our PBRF work streams and specialist librarians provide services customised to disciplinary requirements. Consultations and workshops assist researchers to position their publications for influence and to track their scholarly, governmental and societal impact.
Symplectic is used in the creation of Evidence Portfolios, containing information about the outputs and research-related activities for each researcher over a five-year period. Metadata librarians verify research outputs (publications and artefacts), using a stringent verification process to ensure outputs meet PBRF requirements.
This paper will explore how our Vision and Strategy programme of work is repositioning embryonic and stand-alone services to integrated services accessible to all researchers. Our focus is increasingly on making UoA research excellence more visible externally and helping researchers assess impact.
Alongside a commitment to the scalability and sustainability of existing services, we are investigating and investing in new services and tools as they emerge. New activities being explored with the Centre for eResearch and researchers include Research Bazaar, Hacky hour, Authors/Software/Library carpentry.
