Conferences

In 2006 the department ‘Data Archive and Data Analysis’ of GESIS (formerly known as Central Archive for Empirical Social Research, ZA) introduced its NESSTAR based data portal ZACAT (http://zacat.gesis.org/). Maintaining a large archive for social science – mainly survey – data, GESIS disseminates a large number of data sets and related materials through different channels to the international scientific community. Since the implementation of its first web based download system in 1999 for selected data sets of the German General Social Survey (ALLBUS), dissemination of data through the internet has become increasingly important, both for data users and distributors.

Establishing ZACAT marks a significant step forward in our efforts to offer major parts of our holdings via internet. After a quick online registration procedure users have direct (and easy?) access to the latest versions of data sets and documentation from study series like Eurobarometer, ISSP, European Values Study etc.

After a brief introduction to contents of ZACAT and some special features supporting comparative research, this talk will focus on our experiences with distributing survey data via internet. Particular emphasis will be given on using NESSTAR as a distribution channel. Who uses such a portal and for what purposes? How does NESSTAR meet the needs of data users when it comes to identifying appropriate data and accessing this data online? Which issues are involved for data publishers when distributing data and metadata through the internet? Finally, I will try to give a short outlook on potential directions of our future strategy with regard to online dissemination of data.