There are many ways to publish research findings besides academic journal articles, and when done well, they can be far more effective in reaching audiences outside academia. What are known as ‘non-traditional research publications’ in the university system – commissioned reports, working papers, briefings, blogs, datasets etc – are a key source of knowledge for people working in government, industry and civil society organisations. To have an impact, research users must be able to find, access, evaluate, understand, relate and apply research, and it should be online and free.
This workshop provides a practical overview on how to publish reports and papers that meet professional publishing and bibliographic standards, are able to be integrated into online media and information infrastructures for long term access and value and can facilitate knowledge sharing and impact within the target community. The focus will be on the 5Ps of publishing: Preparation, Production, Publishing, Preservation and Promotion. This will provide an understanding of publishing, dissemination and management of research publications outside of the formal publishing system and how you can maximise the discoverability, value and impact of your work.
In preparation for this workshop participants should consider their research and communication goals, their messages, and the audiences, networks and publics they want to reach. What do they know about how people in their target community access research and information and what content, format and channels do they think would be most effective.
Amanda Lawrence is a researcher and librarian working in the area of research communications, digital libraries and public policy. She is a Research Associate for Outside Opinion and was formerly Director of Analysis & Policy Observatory (apo.org.au), an online database and information service for policy reports and papers. Amanda is currently completing a PhD in Media and Communication at RMIT University on informal publishing and public policy.
