Creation of a database of federally funded aerospace research results: a process model for discussion

摘要

For discussion purposes the authors propose a sereis of simple process models for identifying, selecting, referencing and delivering records containing the results of aerospace research conducted with federal moneys. Records containing aerospace research results take the form of either formal, peer-reviewed, published literature, or informal records. Informal literature, sometimes referred to as gray literature in aerospace sciences, includes a wide range of recorded information, from Technical Reports, Technical Memoranda, Technical Notes, to Program Operating Plans, specifications files, and so on. This paper focuses on identifying, selecting, referencing and delivering the informal literature created in aerospace sciences. In a separate discussion paper, the authors propose a model for identifying, selecting, referencing and delivering formally published aerospace research results information. Identifying, selecting, referencing and delivering informal, federally funded aerospace research records is not a trivial task. The task reflects the complexity of the aerospace R&D system life cycle. The R&D system life cycle is referenced. The authors also describe the types of R&D contracts used by Dept. of Defense and NASA, since the bulk of aerospace research is conducted as work for hire and under the direction of these two primary federal agents. This discussion provides a context for understanding the proposed process models. The solution proposed by the authors takes the form of four generic process models. Each model draws from existing tools and currently available expertise. It recommends using resources in place at this time, including subject experts in the NASA Center libraries, records managers, STI program officers, contract officers, publication officers, R&D program and mission officers, and public affairs offices. The discussion model is proposed at this time because the tools required to solve the problem may be available in the near future. By publicizing the model at this point in time, the authors hope to stimulate discussion among members of the aerospace community.