Making the case for data archiving: The changing “value proposition” of social science data archives

Abstract

In this paper, we analyse how three social science data archives (SSDA) have adapted to provide value to different stakeholders over time. Drawing on historical administrative documents and interviews with current and former staff at three long standing SSDA, we examine how these archives have provided value, to whom, and how they have situated themselves vis-à-vis alternative archives over 20-40 year time spans. Although data archives have been in operation for decades, how they have sustained themselves over time by continuing to provide value to stakeholders in changing conditions is less well understood. Studies of value have tended to focus on a snapshot in time rather than providing a view that emphasizes change over time. We conclude with a comparative analysis of changes in value across archives and suggestions for future work