Rediscovering EarthCube: Collaborate. Or collaborate not. There is no I

Purpose The EarthCube Technology and Architecture Committee working groups needed current information on the development of existing EarthCube-funded projects (e.g. building blocks, conceptual designs, and research coordination networks) to fulfill the goals of the working groups (e.g. gap analysis, use cases, standards bodies and testbed). The aims of this study include a compilation of planned outcomes, an assessment of current work and an investigation of interests in research collaboration among select EarthCube-funded projects. Design/methodology/approach Twenty-four principal investigators of 24 different EarthCube projects completed the Funded Projects Questionnaire composed of 35 questions in March and April 2015. Findings The survey response rate was 100 per cent and included a diversity of results ranging from planning stages to early development to final development. The funded projects in this study received awards in 2013 and 2014. Research limitations/implications The results are EarthCube-specific and are not generalizable. Suggestions for future research include integration of crosscutting disciplines and perspectives, best practices, guidelines and standards for broader impact. Practical implications This study identified potential collaboration opportunities, use cases and gaps (e.g. unmet architectural, functional, operational, organizational and/or technical needs). Social implications The impact on society include an improved understanding of the various EarthCube-funded projects and potential for collaboration within and across multiple disciplines. Originality/value This study contributed to the development of select outputs for EarthCube-funded projects’ presentations, Tech Hands Meeting, 2015 All Hands Meeting, select working groups’ outcomes and EarthCube Strategic Technology Plan and is of value to stakeholders, scientists and users.This study was made possible by contributions of the PIs, co-PIs and senior personnel of all of the EarthCube (EC)-funded projects who participated in this study. Thanks to the EarthCube Technology and Architecture Committee and Engagement Team, Jay Pearlman, Yolanda Gil, Marjorie Chan, Basil Gomez, Ilya Zaslavsky, Phil Yang, Matty Mookerjee, the Gap Analysis Working Group, Anna Kelbert, Emily Law, Mike Daniels, Janet Fredericks, Rachael Black and Steve Diggs. Special thanks to Karl Benedict, Director of Research Data Services, and Laura Soito, Physical Sciences Librarian, at the University of New Mexico