Beyond Data Available Upon Request: Closing the Gap in Open Data
This page includes slides from a Keynote presentation given at the University of Cincinnati Open Research Day. Other materials from the day, including slides from other presentations, can be found on OSF.
Abstract:
The 2025 State of Open Data report found that 81% of respondents support open data sharing. Yet this widespread endorsement has not translated into practice — many researchers stop at promissory data availability statements rather than publicly sharing their data. Commonly cited barriers include the time required to prepare data for reuse, uncertainty about where and how to share, and concerns about errors being uncovered after release.
In this talk, we will examine why the gap between support and practice persists, highlight the scientific and societal benefits of public data sharing, and offer practical strategies for overcoming these barriers. By moving beyond statements toward meaningful open sharing, the research community can strengthen transparency, trust, and reuse across disciplines.