Data services need to be able to demonstrate the impact of their work through clear communication and public engagement.

In the challenging research funding landscapes of today it is imperative that data services demonstrate the impact of their work through clear communication and public engagement.

A large part of this activity will tend to focus on organisational websites, particularly providing a steady stream of news articles and event announcements. See the following pages for examples of the kind of work done by the CESSDA partners:

Blogging and social media

The UK Data Archive maintains a strong social media presence, consisting of a regularly updated Twitter feed, and a Facebook profile. Blogging is emerging as an extremely valuable way to connect with both users of our data, and with other data professionals.

Skills for communications and publicity staff

The following may be viewed as important skills for communications staff:

• expertise in web authoring, design and a detailed understanding of website management and quality control standards
• use and implementation of web standards (e.g. XHTML, CSS, W3C)
• experience of using desktop publishing packages, such as Adobe Photoshop, InDesign
• high degree of computer literacy with proficiency in MS Office Professional (good database skills are essential), Adobe PDF, email, the internet online discussion lists, and expertise in the use of online search and retrieval tools

Pages created with support from: