Global perspectives of research data sharing: A systematic literature review

Studies investigating data sharing from a world perspective are seemingly rare. By employing a quantitative design,this systematic review investigates and presents a comprehensive account of factors hampering data sharing at three levels of the global research hierarchy (individual, institutional and international). The study analyses secondary data extracted from 105 publications (n=105). Journal publishers and research grant organisations are key players in promoting data sharing activities by formulating, adopting and implementing policies on data sharing. Despite concerted efforts to promote data sharing, various factors frustrate these initiatives; they include lack of time and data misappropriation (individual level); data sharing training, absence of compensation and unfavourable internal policies (institutional level); and weak policies, ethical and legal norms, lack of data infrastructure and interoperability issues (international level). To counter these challenges, there is a need for research stakeholders to recognise researchers who share data through data citations, acknowledgement and incentives; invest in infrastructure, conduct training and advocacy programs; formulate stringent and fair policies. Data sharing will only become a success if research stakeholders apply equal efforts in managing data to that of research publications in general. The study offers a unique and comprehensive account of factors hampering data sharing from a global perspective. Solutions suggested could be adopted by research stakeholders in their efforts to enhance data sharing activities at various research levels.