Bridging the Gap: The LCRDM Working Group on Linked Open Data for Research

Linked Open Data (LOD) is increasingly recognized as the "gold standard" for implementing the FAIR principles, particularly regarding interoperability and machine-readability. While LOD enables fragmented data to be transformed into a global, integrated knowledge network, its adoption is often hindered by perceived technical complexity and a lack of beginner-friendly resources. This talk introduces the LCRDM Working Group: Linked Open Data for Research, established to demystify these concepts for research support staff, data stewards, and researchers. The group fills a critical gap between high-level infrastructure governance—such as the Dutch Interoperability Network (DIN)—and domain-specific initiatives like the Netwerk Digitaal Erfgoed (NDE). Key objectives include the development of a reusable LOD beginners’ training and literacy toolkit, the collection of accessible knowledge documentation, and the organization of sessions to share real-world "success stories". By providing practical guidance on LOD, persistent identifiers (PIDs), vocabularies, and licensing, the working group empowers data stewards to bridge the gap between researchers and technical specialists. Ultimately, this collaborative, institute-transcending effort aims to foster a research culture where data is not just findable, but truly connectable and reusable across disciplines. (Working group webpage)