CERIF-CRIS: A Research Information Model for Decision Support: Use and Trends for the Future

Abstract

Current Research Information Systems (CRISs) are dedicated to manage information about Research through CERIF. CERIF is a data model describing the Research involved entities and their manifold relationships in an efficient and scalable way. In addition to the ER-Model CERIF specifies an XML exchange format and develops a domain vocabulary – aimed at re-use and mappings, and towards increased openness. CRISs serve many stakeholders in their recording, reporting and decision-making alongside the entire research process ; whether they are developing programmes, allocating funding, assessing projects, executing projects, generating results, assessing results or transferring technology. A CRIS contains data and metadata or information about e.g. project managers, ongoing and completed projects, research departments, funding organisations, programmes and funding, researchers, research results (publications, patents, products), events, infrastructures (facilities, services, equipment) and their timely relationships (semantics), enabling an integrated approach for managing research information. CERIF – the Common European Research Information Format – is a European Commission Recommendation to Member States and its roots date back to the late 80ies, where it has always been tightly related with CRISs). It is now in the responsibility of euroCRIS, a non-profit organisation dedicated to the development of Research Information Systems and their interoperability.