Resources on the implementation of the Finch Report recommentations
The Government’s acceptance of the key recommendations of the Finch Report last summer, the new policies on open access announced shortly thereafter by the Research Councils, and the forthcoming consultation by the Funding Councils on possible open access requirements for material to be submitted to the REF expected in 2020, have profound implications. All those with a stake in the scholarly communications process – research funders, universities, publishers and not least researchers themselves – are having to consider a series of strategic, policy, and operational issues relating to how they can respond most effectively to the broader policy directions now set by Government and funders.
In this context, here is a strong consensus that all parties need to consult and work together to ensure that progress along the road to open access is as smooth as possible. For the actions of any one party are likely to have significant consequences and implications for others, and there will be a complex interplay between operational and strategic development. The RIN has therefore established a stakeholders forum to sustain the dialogue between the different parties, to share experiences, information and ideas, and to help ensure that all parties are aware of progress – or any difficulties that are arising – in different areas.
As part of this initiative, we are also establishing this set of pages on the RIN website as a platform through which anyone can get access to key sources of information about progress on each of the key Finch recommendations, the implementation of the new RCUK policies, and the Funding Councils’ consultation.
Follow the links below to find out more about each of the areas covered by the new policies; there is also a list of quick links to key documents.
1. RCUK and other research funders’ policies
2. Funding Councils and the REF
3. University policies and procedures
The Finch Group will meet again in September 2013 to review progress in implementing its recommendations. The RIN has been commissioned to gather evidence from key stakeholders as part of the preparation for that meeting. A template for stakeholders to provide such evidence is here: template for stakeholder statements.
Last update: 15 April 2013