Who does what and why

Basic researcher

• Anticipate questions nobody has asked yet
• Limited contact with users, mostly core professionals
• Credibility established through publication

Consultancy

• Address specific questions from clients
• Intimate interaction with client organizations
• Data not generally available to the public
• Credibility established through clientele

Data warehouse

• Questions answered are longstanding and well known
• Data transfer (order processing) support
• Redirects customers to consultants for help
• Credibility established by quality of data, which is governed by procedures

Software developer

• Questions arise in feedback from users
• Work with users to understand their needs
• Modifies data, develops tools for users
• Credibility established by usability of data and quality of technical support