In the coming months DOAB will conduct research on user needs, to evaluate the users’ experiences of DOAB (as it is currently set up in its beta-version), and to identify needs and expectations with respect to (the directory of) Open Access books.
DOABlog
As part of the user needs study an open and online discussion will be hosted on the DOAB mailing list and the DOABlog from the 9th until the 22nd of July. This online discussion with publishers, scholars, and with the wider Open Access and publishing community will provide an overview of opinions and views about Open Access books, and certain issues, such quality control and peer review.
Online survey
DOAB will also conduct a more formal user needs survey in August. This survey will provide feedback about the platform as it is currently set up and help to establish user requirements for the service. The survey will also explore the sustainability of the service and the future of Open Access book production and consumption in general.
We will use this knowledge to develop guidelines and recommendations for admission to DOAB and for its further development.
DOABlog 