Databases/Software/Algorithms

	Database resulting from the research study Software resulting from the research study Algorithm resulting from the research study

A database is defined by the National Library of Medicine as a work consisting of a structured file of information or a set of logically related data stored and retrieved using computer-based means.

Software is defined by the National Library of Medicine as sequential operating instructions for a particular problem or function to be run on a digital computer.

An algorithm is defined by the National Library of Medicine as a procedure consisting of a sequence of algebraic formulas and/or logical steps to calculate or determine a given task.

Assessment

Documentation by research study investigators of databases, software or algorithms developed as a result of the research study is recommended for tracking of research output.

Some research investigators opt to make their databases, software or algorithms publicly available while others are required to share these as a condition of a grant award or journal policy. The Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Policy on Sharing Publication-Related Materials, Data and Software stipulates that upon publication of their work, investigators are expected to make materials, data and databases, and software integral to their publication freely available for research use by other scientists and to handle requests expeditiously. PLoS journals require authors to provide sufficient information for interested users to reproduce or build on the author’s work if a new software or algorithm is central to a paper.

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Last updated: April 27, 2009