Critical success factors in research data repository consortia: a lifecycle perspective with evidence from China

Purpose Research data repository (RDR) consortia are pivotal to improving the efficiency of scientific data sharing. However, the factors that determine their success across different life cycle stages remain underexplored. This study aims to identify and prioritize the critical success factors (CSFs) affecting RDR consortia in China from a life cycle perspective. Design/methodology/approach A mixed-methods approach was adopted to examine CSFs across the planning, implementation and sustainability stages. Semi-structured interviews with eight domain experts from China were conducted to generate CSFs, which were subsequently weighted through an analytical hierarchy process survey involving 112 stakeholders. Findings The results identify 21 factors influence RDR consortia success. Reflecting China’s top-down context, governance-related factors and researcher engagement dominate the planning stage. During implementation, legal and standardization mechanisms are most critical. In the sustainability stage, adaptive governance and benefit-sharing mechanisms are crucial for ensuring long-term resilience and responsiveness. Originality/value This study offers a life cycle-based framework that integrates legal, technical and governance factors across stages, providing actionable insights for academic libraries, policymakers and consortia managers, particularly in nations with similar top-down data strategies.