Perceived discontinuities and continuities in transdisciplinary scientific working groups

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Biological Science
• Cyberinfrastructure
• Data Management

Background:

• The DataONE project aimed to build a cyberinfrastructure for environmental and biological data preservation and access.
• Achieving this objective required innovative solutions and effective organizational structures.
• The project utilized a working group model to manage its diverse membership.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the factors contributing to the success of transdisciplinary projects.
• To understand the effectiveness of working groups in facilitating scientific synthesis.
• To provide evidence-based recommendations for optimizing working group dynamics.

Main Methods:

• Employed organizational discontinuity theory as a theoretical framework.
• Collected and analyzed both quantitative and qualitative data from DataONE members.
• Examined the structure and function of working groups within the DataONE project.

Main Results:

• Success in transdisciplinary projects is linked to specific organizational practices.
• Effective working groups benefit from clear communication and shared understanding.
• The inclusion of knowledge brokers, such as librarians, is crucial for bridging disciplinary gaps.

Conclusions:

• Transdisciplinary projects necessitate intentional strategies for managing diversity and communication.
• Fostering an inclusive environment that welcomes varied perspectives enhances project outcomes.
• Implementing structured communication and incorporating bridge-builders are vital for successful scientific synthesis.