Repository (noun): a place, room, or container where something is deposited or stored (Merriam Webster).
Repositories are not exclusive to research or research data, nor do they have to be digital entities. Some of the best-known repositories are physical entities like museums and libraries. In the context of research data, repositories are platforms with policies and infrastructure that are designed for the long-term preservation and accessibility of data. Data often are, but do not need to be, associated with a specific article, book, or similar output. Although repositories vary widely, some common core attributes include:
The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) produced a document titled "Desirable Characteristics of Data Repositories for Federally Funded Research" with additional details.
The term archive is sometimes also used with respect to data sharing (either as a noun or verb). These terms are generally synonymous in referring to platforms intended for long-term data storage and preservation but can have specific connotations (e.g., for the federal government, see USGS explanation). In general, archives are meant for a single static deposit that is not intended to be updated (versioned), and data may thus be stored in a way that are harder to quickly access or edit (e.g., tape drives).
There are three major types of research data repositories:
Below are some examples of well-known specialist repositories for social science and humanities disciplines.
Below are some examples of well-known specialist repositories for natural science, engineering, technology, and math disciplines.
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