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Open access to data: An ideal professed but not practised

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  • Andreoli-Versbach, Patrick
  • Mueller-Langer, Frank

Abstract

Data-sharing is an essential tool for replication, validation and extension of empirical results. Using a hand-collected data set describing the data-sharing behaviour of 488 randomly selected empirical researchers, we provide evidence that most researchers in economics and management do not share their data voluntarily. We derive testable hypotheses based on the theoretical literature on information-sharing and relate data-sharing to observable characteristics of researchers. We find empirical support for the hypotheses that voluntary data-sharing significantly increases with (a) academic tenure, (b) the quality of researchers, (c) the share of published articles subject to a mandatory data-disclosure policy of journals, and (d) personal attitudes towards “open science” principles. On the basis of our empirical evidence, we discuss a set of policy recommendations.

Suggested Citation

  • Andreoli-Versbach, Patrick & Mueller-Langer, Frank, 2014. "Open access to data: An ideal professed but not practised," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 43(9), pages 1621-1633.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:respol:v:43:y:2014:i:9:p:1621-1633
    DOI: 10.1016/j.respol.2014.04.008
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Voluntary data-sharing; Mandatory data-disclosure; Open science;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • B40 - Schools of Economic Thought and Methodology - - Economic Methodology - - - General
    • C80 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Data Collection and Data Estimation Methodology; Computer Programs - - - General
    • L59 - Industrial Organization - - Regulation and Industrial Policy - - - Other

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