Depositing Data: A Usability Study of the Texas Data Repository

Abstract

When researchers share their data in open access repositories, it elevates the impact, efficiency, and effectiveness of their scholarly activities. The Texas Data Repository is an open-source platform for publishing, sharing, and archiving data created by researchers at Texas higher education institutions. This study adopted an evaluation model that examines effectiveness, efficiency, and satisfaction of first-time data depositors. The components of the usability study centered around the three themes--effectiveness, efficiency, and satisfaction-- to understand the data depositors’ experience with the repository. Results demonstrated that most users think the layout of the repository is clear and organized, but participants faced challenges as well. Our study generated recommendations and suggested materials and guidance that the Libraries can provide to depositors to improve the user experience.