New Feature: DOIs on DataStream
Ensuring that water quality data on DataStream is easy to find, access, use and reuse is at the centre of our mission. For this reason, we have dedicated a lot of time exploring ways to integrate permanent identifiers into your datasets.
After designing, implementing and testing this new feature, we are thrilled to announce that DataStream is now assigning Digital Object Identifiers (DOI) to datasets across all three platforms.
What is a DOI?
A DOI is a unique alphanumeric string assigned to identify an online object (in the case of DataStream, a dataset). DOIs are tied to the metadata description of a dataset and provide a permanent link to its content, not just a URL which can change over time.
DOIs solve a universal problem with online information and research citations: broken links. Not only do DOIs make it easy to find datasets online, it is now simpler than ever to share and cite DataStream content.
Say goodbye to broken links, dead links, 404 Page Not Found errors, hanging references
How it Works
Once you have successfully uploaded your data to DataStream, an administrator will register key metadata and a URL with DataCite, an international DOI registration authority. A unique DOI is assigned to your dataset and can then be found in the associated metadata, by querying the DataCite registry, and through Google DataSet Search.
Why it Matters
While you can rest assured that DataStream is here to stay, DOIs now provide a persistent online record of your datasets, irrespective of their location on the web (think of it like the ISBN system used for books).
With DOIs in place, DataStream:
- Ensures that datasets are always findable
- Avoids the common issue of broken links, as URLs can change over time
- Simplifies direct incorporation of dataset citations in research
- Makes it easier to understand the impact of a dataset beyond its original intended use
DataStream’s ability to mint DOIs on behalf of dozens of data contributors across Canada establishes its leadership among a growing community of trusted repositories working to further FAIR data principles (data is Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Reusable).
Questions? Contact us !
