Beyond CRIS: A research and higher education information system in Poland

Abstract

This article presents a recently implemented Polish information technology system that provides official data on science and higher education. The RAD-on is an upgraded analytical platform of the CRIS and HEMIS systems that exist in other countries. The article outlines RAD-on’s applications in decision-making processes at research, governmental, and nongovernmental institutions. The special role and the innovation of the RAD-on system for the science and higher education sector are illustrated using examples of its practical use by universities, government ministries, foundations, and journalists.

The article also describes trends in the use of data in decision-making processes, reviews the CRIS and HEMIS nationwide systems in use across the world, and compares them to RAD-on to discuss the latter’s unique features. It also reflects on RAD-on’s functionalities and how they are used in practice by the stakeholders of the science and higher education system. The article concludes by discussing the challenges of open access to government data and the development plans for RAD-on.