A cost benefit analysis framework for Open Science

Understanding the impacts of Open Science (OS) and the extent to which they materialise requires a solid methodological framework, which is not yet fully established. The Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) framework for OS - developed (part of the PathOS project) - aims to provide a systematic and comprehensive approach to quantifying the impacts of OS. This framework goes beyond simply evaluating benefits; it incorporates associated costs and enables meaningful comparisons with scenarios in which OS is not implemented. This presentation will illustrate key elements of this framework, focusing on the types of costs (e.g.,set-up and maintenance costs) and benefits (e.g.,costs saved) specifically related to open science, and details the methodology to quantify these elements within the context of a CBA. Real-world applications of this framework will be used to offer practical insights into its utility and effectiveness. In particular, the presentation will draw on the use of the CBA to assess the value of: UniProt, a widely used and freely accessible open database for protein sequence and functional information. RCAAP, a network of open institutional repositories involving multiple Portuguese research institutions. This presentation will show how the CBA framework can support policy and funding decisions and demonstrate the value of OS practices in research infrastructures. It will also shed light on the challenges that may arise when applying this framework and offer recommendations for potential mitigation strategies and actions. These insights are intended to enhance the utility of the framework as a valuable tool for the future evaluation of OS resources.