Developing an institutional repository: Cranfield QUEprints – a case study

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the development of the Institutional Repository at Cranfield University – Cranfield QUEprints (http://dspace.lib.cranfield.ac.uk).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes the methodologies involved in acquiring research output, and covers advocacy strategies, policies, and also provides data on cost and usage.

Findings

The Cranfield QUEprints is a managed repository where the archiving is undertaken by library staff. This has proved to be a successful method of acquiring research outputs and increasing content. Selected methods of persuading academics to contribute to the IR, including personal contact, and marketing information, have also proved successful.

Research limitations/implications

That the report is specific to an institution, but provides experiences that will be generally applicable.

Originality/value

The paper provides reassurance that, when it comes to populating an institutional repository, an alternative method to self‐archiving can be successful and cost‐effective. It is hoped that the descriptions provided in the paper will provide encouragement to institutions currently without an IR that there are no insurmountable barriers to the development of such a system.

Citation

Bevan, S.J. (2007), "Developing an institutional repository: Cranfield QUEprints – a case study", OCLC Systems & Services: International digital library perspectives, Vol. 23 No. 2, pp. 170-182. https://doi.org/10.1108/10650750710748478