Build your research information system without vendor lock-in: lessons from UASs

In an increasingly data-driven research landscape, institutions are under pressure to manage research information efficiently while also aligning with Open Science goals. Yet many universities find themselves locked into commercial systems that compromise openness, adaptability, and limit digital sovereignty. This workshop introduces MORIS, a Modular Open Research Information System, developed by and for the Universities of Applied Sciences (UASs). Built on the principle of “enter once, reuse often”, MORIS aims to reduce redundancy, foster interoperability, and align research information management with Open Science principles. Instead of creating yet another layer of reporting, MORIS seeks to tap into the information already present in researchers’ workflows, turning existing touchpoints (e.g., grant applications, DMPs, publishing) into opportunities for smart data reuse. The open architecture helps institutions stay in control of their research information infrastructure, avoid vendor lock-in, and ensure interoperability with existing tools and workflows.