By Shonna Clark, JHU
Over three years ago, the Data Conservancy began its mission to create technological and human infrastructure able to support the preservation, re-use and discovery of research data. Today, DC is one step closer to that goal. We are pleased to announce the release of our alpha software, which is now available on the Data Conservancy website.
Based on lessons learned from our deep engagements with DC’s research scientists, the software has been developed using service-oriented architecture (SOA) principles – consistent with the Open Archival Information System (OAIS) Reference Model – with the objective of providing a robust technology platform for institutions with an interest in data management.
The first available downloads of Data Conservancy software – Data Conservancy Service (DCS) and Reference User Interface (Reference UI) – are alpha versions, specifically 1.1.0-alpha. There are some excellent features available, but there are some features that will become available in subsequent releases.
DCS and Reference UI versions 1.1.0-alpha can be used collectively or independently depending on the institutions needs. Important features of the downloads include a robust ingest framework; a query interface; an archival store abstraction over the Fedora Repository; an HTTP APIs supporting ingest, query, and retrieval of data; and a browser-based user interface.
Given the agile development processes we are using we anticipate releasing newer versions of the software whenever substantial new functionality is complete. Enhanced metadata ingest and indexing capabilities have been targeted as the next features for development. We note the next release may not be compatible with the alpha version.
Before downloading the software, we strongly suggest that you read all information pertaining to the current software versions, including available documentation on the system administration, user interface administration, and user interface users guide.
More detailed information can be found on the Downloads and Documentation pages of the Data Conservancy website.