This may seem, on face, to be only a minor problem - after all, does it really matter if the average citizen appreciates the importance of each research study described within these journals?  The answer to this question is, quite simply: Yes

At a theoretical (and perhaps idealistic) level, the importance of increasing the accessibility of the academic research process lies in the awareness that a scientifically literate citizenry will be far more likely to contribute constructively toward furthering the efforts of researchers seeking to overcome the challenges which confront our world.

At a practical level (one which might be of interest to those researchers who may otherwise be skeptical of the value of increasing the accessibility of their work) the importance of widespread scientific literacy lies in the reality that the primary source of academic research funding in a majority of nations is the national government. The governmental officials who are entrusted to make decisions regarding which research projects (or fields of research) are funded and which are not, are held accountable to their decisions by the citizens who elect them.

What does this mean for academic researchers?

It means that a scientifically illiterate citizen is far less likely to recognize or appreciate the efforts of an official who chooses to provide funding to research the citizen might consider unimportant, or unnecessary.  Consequently, officials may be far less likely to risk their position or politial reputation by choosing to provide funding for research that might hurt, or provide only a marginal benefit, to them politically.

Thus, it is in the best interest of each researcher to "make their case" to as many citizens as possible to ensure that they are aware of the work the researcher is engaged in - and of its importance.

It is to help academic researchers make this case, and invite the broader non-research community to play a more active role in the academic research process, that we at The OSSP have developed this unique platform.

Through the tools and resources offered by The OSSP, academic researchers may:

• Create publicly-accessible profiles ►

• Interact and exchange ideas with peers and colleagues

• Manage scholarly publications/bibliographies ►

• Secure research funding (in the form of microgrants provided by the broader non-research community) ►

Simultaneously non-researchers, by registering as 'investors', may:

• Read through cutting-edge (peer-reviewed) research proposals

• Interact and exchange ideas with academic researchers

• Fund academic research projects ►

Through these steps - which we believe will go a long way toward increasing the availability of research funding, and the transparency and accessibility of the academic research process; we hope to work with you to transform how academic research is done.

To get a better sense of the resources we offer, and how they might benefit you as either a researcher or investor, review the outline below, and browse through the descriptions of our resources and tools provided in the 'Platform' tab above.  To register, click on the 'Members' heading above or click here.