ODESI: Creation of a Web-based Data Exploration Portal
Paula. Hurtubise · Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) · 2008
Through standards, design and technology, ODESI, the Ontario Data Documentation, Extraction Service and Infrastructure project has created a web portal for university researchers, academics and students, which render them discriminating and informed users of a vast collection of social research data. This sophisticated data portal, with supporting DDI compliant metadata, houses microdata, such as Gallup Polls and Statistic's Canada census files, which can be searched, browsed, analysed and downloaded. It eliminates the steep learning curve associated with the use of microdata files. The ODESI exploration tool facilitates investigation and creative data intervention making even the novice an autonomous and innovative researcher. This paper provides an overview of the ODESI project from its inception three years ago to implementation today. Acquisition of budget, informatics architecture, communications strategies and the development of key partnerships will all be discussed. ODESI inspires, develops and supports research excellence in the academic environment.