Institutionalizing Best Practices in Research Computing: A Framework and Case Study for Improving User Onboarding
Ayush Chaturvedi, Rob Pokorney, Elyn Fritz-Waters, Charlotte Rouse, Gary Bax + 2 more
TLDR
This paper introduces a framework to streamline new user onboarding in research computing centers, validated through a case study.
Key contributions
- Identifies challenges in onboarding new users to complex research computing infrastructure.
- Proposes a novel framework specifically designed to enhance the new-user onboarding experience.
- Provides empirical validation of the framework through a case study at Washington University.
Why it matters
This paper addresses a critical, widespread issue in research computing: the difficulty of onboarding new users. By providing a validated framework, it offers a practical solution for institutions to improve user access and reduce complexity. This can lead to more efficient use of valuable research infrastructure.
Original Abstract
Research computing centers around the world struggle with onboarding new users. Subject matter experts, researchers, and principal investigators are often overwhelmed by the complex infrastructure and software offerings designed to support diverse research domains at large academic and national institutions. As a result, users frequently fall into confusion and complexity to access these resources, despite the availability of documentation, tutorials, interactive trainings and other similar resources. Through this work, we present a framework designed to improve new-user onboarding experience. We also present an empirical validation through its application within the Research Infrastructure Services at Washington University in St. Louis.
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