GitLab at the Socio-Economic Panel – A Roadshow

The Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP) relies heavily on a GitLab server for its data management and documentation needs. GitLab is a web-based Git repository manager that provides version control for source code, project management tools, and automation. At the SOEP, the GitLab server has been configured to provide several key features, including: Version control: GitLab provides a centralised repository for storing and managing source code, making it easier to track changes and collaborate with other team members. The SOEP uses this feature to manage scripts (Stata and R) and metadata. Issue tracking: GitLab's built-in issue tracker allows users to report and track bugs, defects, and other issues. At the SOEP, the issue tracker is used to report problems during data preparation, document issues, and track bug reports from data users. It is also used to manage teams or projects, complex internal processes with multiple stakeholders, and to organise weekly meetings. Service desks: GitLab's service desks feature enables users to create and manage support tickets. This feature can be used to centralise and distribute user requests to the relevant specialists, replacing email battles within the team. Automation: GitLab's pipeline feature allows the SOEP to automate the testing and deployment of metadata stored in CSV files. This feature has also been used to produce almost publication-ready PDF files. Wiki: GitLab's built-in wiki feature allows users to create and edit pages of content within the GitLab interface. The SOEP uses this feature to create internal documentation related to its data management activities. Overall, the GitLab server at the SOEP provides a range of features that support the organisation's research and data management needs. By using GitLab, the SOEP has been able to improve collaboration and streamline workflows