Teagasc has launched their own Open Data Portal (opendata.teagasc.ie) to make data generated primarily through their research available for reuse and redistribution. Teagasc engaged Derilinx to develop the portal utilising the OGP Technical Services Framework for Open Data and Data Management.
Teagasc – the Agriculture and Food Development Authority – is the national body providing integrated research, advisory and training services to the agriculture and food industry and rural communities. As the leading body in agricultural and food research, Teagasc is committed to advancing innovation and supporting sustainable development across a range of sectors, including: Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Crops, Environment and Land Use Food Rural Economy and Development.
Teagasc’s Open Data Platform is designed to make data generated primarily through their research available for reuse and redistribution. By providing open access to these datasets, Teagasc aim to enhance transparency, foster research innovation, and contribute to informed decision-making across agricultural and rural sectors This platform aligns with Ireland’s Open Data Strategy, promoting the use of data for economic, social, and environmental benefits.
The portal is built on datAdore, Derilinx data sharing platform, which can function as an Open Data Portal and a internal Data Sharing Platform.The portal is built on datAdore, Derilinx data sharing platform, which can function as an Open Data Portal and a internal Data Sharing Platform.
Teagasc Open Data Portal stands out with a few unique features:
Internal Data Catalogue: In addition to the Open Data Portal, Teagasc required an internal data catalogue accessible only through their internal network. This centralised platform enables seamless data sharing across departments and business units.
Custom Metadata for Research Data: To address their need to share research data effectively, Teagasc requested the addition of custom metadata fields, including links to authors, external research papers, and project funders, among other fields. It also includes the functionality to add DOI’s (digital object identifiers) with datasets – DOIs are a critical component in modern research practices, ensuring that data remains accessible, verifiable, and citable well into the future.

Dataset Zip Downloader: The addition of this feature allows entire research datasets to be downloaded in bulk as a single zip package, simplifying the distribution of complete datasets rather than requiring the download of individual resources separately.

Departments and Programmes: While other open data portals typically use standard classifications like Business Units and Themes, Teagasc chose to customise these features to better align with their organisational structure. Using “Teagasc Departments” and “Programmes” allows them to provide users with an immediate, clear overview of the organisation as soon as they land on the homepage.
The launch of the Teagasc Open Data Portal represents a significant step toward open and accessible research data. By making valuable datasets available, Teagasc is empowering researchers, policymakers, and industry professionals to drive innovation and informed decision-making. This initiative reinforces their commitment to transparency and sustainable development in agriculture and rural communities. Explore the portal at opendata.teagasc.ie.
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