As research data supporters, we want to assist our researchers in the best way that we can. Working together requires a shared lexicon and understanding of key terminology, as well as legible coordination of expectations and offerings. We, the UDCC at Utrecht University, identify situations where we can improve our services. Often researchers and supporters match on needs and offerings but there is a context gap, resulting in mismeetings, needs that go unmet, and services without demand. With this session, we aim to chart these gaps at the national level and publish the results to build better research connections across the Netherlands.

Bringing researchers and supporters together, we can determine whether needs and available support are aligned or if gaps need to be bridged between both groups. We will first facilitate separate discussions with researchers and supporters to explore their respective processes. Then, we will combine both groups to identify existing matches, uncover unmet needs, and recognize support services that are available but not currently in demand. By fostering open dialogue and collaboration between researchers and data supporters, we hope to create a stronger foundation for ongoing engagement, ensuring that researchers receive the right support to advance their research while supporters gain valuable insights to refine and enhance their services.