Publishing your Research: Ngā Whakaputanga Auaha | Non-traditional Research Outputs (NTROs)

Non-traditional research outputs (NTROs) are outputs that may not fit the conventional publishing model. They differ from journal articles, books, book chapters and conference papers but should be considered as research objects that play an important role in advancing knowledge. Examples of NTROs include: 

• Original creative works (visual art and design) 
• Music and composition
• Creative dance and performance
• Websites
• Architectural work
• Exhibitions
• Commissioned reports 

Persistent Identifiers (PIDs)

The key to making NTROs visible is by using a persistent identifier (PID), which provides your research with a unique and permanent ID. There are a number of different PIDs available to researchers but one of the more common ones is Digital Object Identifier (DOI). 

DOIs can be assigned to any object and do not need to be digital. Assigning a DOI, often referred to as minting, is done by a DOI registration agency. Please contact the library@waikato.ac.nz for more information. 

Research Commons

All research deposited in the University's institutional repository, Research Commons, is assigned a unique handle (PID). By uploading your NTRO to Research Commons you are ensuring your NTRO is preserved and traceable through a unique identifier. 

Publishing Considerations

When weighing up where to present or publish your NTRO, it is important factor in these considerations:

• For creative works, consider the reputation of the gallery or venue. Including:
  • How many people are likely to see your work?
  • Will it be promoted?
  • Is your work likely to be reviewed by peers in your field?
  • Can you show the level of engagement with your research?
  • Will you be able to gather evidence that you can use in your PBRF portfolio?
• Can you publish material relating to your creative work in more than one outlet? 
• Have you factored in CARE principles when presenting work about or for Indigenous peoples?
• Will there be a recording, images or a catalogue of your creative work?