CRKN: Collaboration and Innovation

The Canadian Research Knowledge Network (CRKN) is marking its 10th anniversary in 2010. As it moves towards its teenage years, CRKN continues to be a critical member of the academic family in Canada.

CRKNEstablished through the leadership of CARL, the core funding of CFI, and the investments of many participating universities across the country, CRKN is a model of collaboration and innovation.

Currently 72 universities in Canada are members of CRKN. Through the consortial purchasing programs of CRKN, these members take advantage of model licensing contracts and expert staff to achieve advantageous agreements that enhance information access and reduce costs. Annual expenditures are approaching $100M -  98% of which is spent on content.

During its 10 years CRKN has received two CFI awards; the most recent was for the Digital Content Infrastructure (DCI) project; providing digital scholarly resources for the humanities and social sciences. This was the single biggest investment in this academic area ever by a federal funding agency.

The enduring value and importance of CRKN can be seen in the most recent round of contract renewals - content licensed previously that is being extended for another contract term. The high rate of participation by member institutions illustrates the value derived from the CRKN approach to acquisition. This is especially crucial during these times of intense financial constraint.

Recently Deb deBruijn, the Executive Director, posted a message highlighting the anniversary and outlining the issues, challenges and opportunities ahead for CRKN and its members. The next decade will see CRKN sustaining its position as well as breaking new ground.

...Mike