Research data are vital assets, and higher education institutes (HEIs) are advised to establish spaces for sharing such data. Consequently, the governance of research data has become a significant concern for HEIs. However, the coverage and content of research data governance (RDG) remain unclear. This study aims to identify dimensions and components of an RDG and propose a comprehensive framework in this regard. To identify key dimensions of the RDG, 20 documents on data management and RDG from HEIs worldwide were selected. These documents were coded using MAXQDA software. Subsequently, in-depth interviews were conducted with seven experts in the field. The interviews were transcribed and coded in MAXQDA. The results of document analysis and expert opinions were combined to identify dimensions and components of a comprehensive framework for RDG within HEIs. The research indicates that a comprehensive framework for RDG should address the organizational, legal, and technical aspects of research data management. The framework for RDG comprises five main sections: introduction, approval, principles and policies, roles and responsibilities, and data management. Research data constitute valuable institutional assets that require proper governance. The framework for RDG aims to effectively and efficiently manage these data through policy formulation and delineation of roles and responsibilities within HEIs. To harness the potential benefits of these assets, an RDG policy is essential for HEIs. This is the first study to identify the dimensions and key components of a framework for RDG. While extensive research has been conducted on data management/governance, a structured policy in this domain is neglected. This study attempts to bridge this gap.
Akhlaghi et al. (Thu,) studied this question.