Introduction
Deltares aims to apply the FAIR DATA framework to its experimental facility data to enhance the discoverability, accessibility, interoperability, and reusability of the data.
Deltares acknowledges the significant importance of experimental facilities in advancing scientific research and driving innovation.
Our facilities produce extensive volumes of data, encompassing a wide range of information from physical measurements.
In order to optimize the usefulness of this data and secure its long-term availability, Deltares is committed to implementing the FAIR DATA framework for its experimental facility data.
To realize our goals of implementing the FAIR DATA framework for our experimental facility data, we have devised a step-wise approach that emphasizes continuous improvement and scalability.
We will initiate the process by focusing on a select number of experimental facilities (Q2 2023: Delta Basin; Geolab Database and Geo Centrifuge) and gradually expand the implementation to encompass additional facilities
At present, we are primarily emphasizing the "F" (Findable) and "A" (Accessible) aspects of the FAIR DATA framework.
By prioritizing these elements, we aim to ensure that our experimental facility data is easily discoverable and readily accessible to all of our colleagues and in the future also to our external stakeholders (only under strict regulations).
Target audience
Currently, our primary focus regarding the implementation of the FAIR DATA framework is on our Deltares colleagues and the individuals directly involved in the operation and management of the experimental facilities.
Fair Data Finder tooling
The FAIR Data Finder consists of two parts: the first part involves adding (additional) metadata to the data from the facilities, and the second part involves searching and discovering the data from the facilities.
The Find and Search tooling is based on GeoNetworks, an application that is widely utilized within Deltares. Keep in mind that these tools are only available within the Deltares network. When access is need outside of the Deltares campus a VPN-connection is needed.
In the current phase GeoNetworks serves as the foundation for our data discovery and search capabilities, enabling efficient exploration and retrieval of data from our facilities and in the future also from other Deltares sources.
Publishing metadata
For each facility two or more employees will be responsible for publishing metadata by using the following the application https://facilities-fair-data.avi.directory.intra/#/. Only authorized employees are allowed to publish datasets to the FAIR Data Finder. If you need authorization, send a message to fairdata@deltares.nl and your request will be processed shortly after.
The following tutorial Manual Fair Data Finder provides an detailed explaination of this tool. To facilitate the searching of datasets it is possible to select a set of keywords of from a standardized set of keywords. For each facility of set of keywords is available.
Searching and discovering data
Searching and discovering can be done with the following application https://fairdatafinder.deltares.nl. This application is accessible for all deltares employees. The following tutorial provides an detailed explanation of this tool.
