International Journal of Information Science and Management (IJISM)

A Framework for Developing Research Data Governance in Higher Education Institutes: The Case of the University of Qom

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Mehdi Akhlaghi 1
Yaghoub Norouzi 2
Ali Taei Zadeh 3
Behrooz Rasuli 4

1 MSc in Knowledge and Information Science, Department of Knowledge and Information Science, Faculty of Literature and Human Sciences, University of Qom, Iran.

2 Professor, Knowledge and Information Science, Department of Knowledge and Information Science, Faculty of Literature and Human Sciences, University of Qom, Iran.

3 Assistant Prof., Department of Computer Engineering. Faculty of Engineering, University of Qom, Iran.

4 Assistant Prof., Knowledge and Information Science, Society and Information Research Department, Iranian Research Institute for Information Science and Technology (IranDoc), Iran.

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijism.2026.2024173.1419
Abstract
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.
 
 

Keywords

Open Research
Open Science
Open Data
Institutional Repository
Information Policy
Laws
Regulations
University of Qom
Data Governance
Higher Education Institutes

Subjects

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International Journal of Information Science and Management (IJISM)
Volume 24, Issue 1
Winter 2026
Pages 133-154

  • Receive Date 02 March 2024
  • Revise Date 26 August 2025
  • Accept Date 28 January 2026

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