Data and repriducibility
Purpose
The Journal of Public Administration and Policy (JAKP) supports transparency in research and encourages authors to explain in detail the data, methods, and analysis process so that findings can be verified, retested, and further developed. This principle is important to increase trust in research results, encourage collaboration, strengthen public accountability, and expand the impact of knowledge in the field of public administration.
Definition
• Research data includes all information collected, generated or used in the research process. In the context of social science, this includes interview transcripts, survey results, policy documents, FGD minutes, field notes, as well as other documents that inform the interpretation of results.
• Reproducibility is the ability to repeat the research and obtain similar results based on the same data and methods.
• Reporting guidelines are a minimum framework or list that helps authors convey the research process and results in an honest and transparent manner.
JAKP Policy
1. Data Availability Statement
Every scientific article submitted to JAKP must include a Data Availability Statement (DAS) that explains whether the data is available, where it can be accessed, and if it is not available, why. If the data involves humans or vulnerable groups, the authors must state that ethical approval has been obtained and that data sharing does not violate that approval.
2. Transparency of Methodology and Verification of Documentation
Authors must adequately explain the methods used, including the research design, research instruments, data collection procedures, analysis process, and validity and bias considerations. Editors and reviewers may request supporting documentation during the evaluation process, such as research instruments, variable lists, coding guidelines, and thematic analysis schemes (for qualitative studies).
3. Data Sharing and Repositories
Authors are encouraged to share data through trusted public repositories that ensure continued access. JAKP recommends using repositories that provide a permanent identifier (such as DOI) and follow FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) principles, such as Zenodo, INA-Rxiv, or institutional repositories.
4. Qualitative/Quantitative Code and Analysis
If using software (such as R, STATA, NVivo, Atlas.ti), then the script structure or coding systematics should be explained, attached, or provided in a replicable form. Authors should also openly communicate the process of categorization and interpretation of findings, including if triangulation analysis was used.
5. Secondary Data Sources
If the research uses secondary data documents or datasets (e.g. BPS, LAPOR, or OECD data), authors must include the source, type of access (open or restricted), and official citation.
6. Study Registration
For types of research such as policy experiments, quantitative surveys, or field trials, JAKP encourages pre-registration of research protocols on open platforms such as OSF, AEA Registry, or AsPredicted. This helps prevent bias in results and strengthens methodological transparency.
7. Data Access for Local Communities
If research is conducted in vulnerable communities or remote areas, authors are encouraged to provide summaries of results or other forms of data that can be understood by local stakeholders. This principle is part of the researcher's social accountability to the research subject and region.
8. Use of Reporting Guidelines
JAKP encourages the use of reporting guides appropriate to the type of research, such as COREQ for in-depth interviews, SRQR for reflective studies, or STROBE for quantitative surveys. Links and instructions will be provided in the "Instructions for Authors" page.
9. Data Storage and Retention
Authors are requested to retain raw data, supplementary documents, and research instruments for at least five years after publication. Further requirements follow the policies of the institution or research sponsor.
10. Handling Post-Publication Issues
If issues are found regarding data integrity or interpretation of results after the article is published, the JAKP may request clarification and data access. If serious violations are confirmed, the JAKP will issue a correction, statement of concern, or retract the article according to COPE guidelines.
11. Consequences for Non-Compliance
If an author fails to provide data as stated in the DAS without a valid reason, JAKP may suspend publication or withdraw the article. This is done to maintain the integrity of the publication process.
12. Exceptions
If data cannot be shared due to ethical, legal, or local sensitivity reasons (such as indigenous community confidentiality or participant safety), authors must explain in detail in the DAS and explain whether the data can be accessed by other researchers on a limited basis through a special request.
