Table 3 Recommendations for the sustainable development of community-developed data resources and the related benefits derived from their implementation

(A) Incentivize data contributions

Researchers, data curators, database developers, policymakers

Create systems (and a scientific culture) for increased acknowledgement, attribution and citation for data contributions.

4, 5, 6

(B) Establish a framework for data integration

Researchers, data curators, database developers, funders

Develop a standardized framework for integrating diverse Earth system databases, ensuring interoperability and data quality transparency.

1, 2, 5, 6

(C) Secure sustainable funding

Researchers, database developers, funders, policymakers, institutions

Advocate for dedicated funding streams to support the development, maintenance and enhancement of modular data systems.

All

(D) Promote open science practices

All

Encourage the adoption of open science practices, including open data, open-access publications and collaborative research initiatives.

All

(E) Invest in technology and innovation

Funders, policymakers, institutions

Leverage technological advancements to enhance data integration, analysis and visualization capabilities.

1, 2, 6

(F) Build and foster global collaborations

Researchers, funders, policymakers, institutions

International collaborations and partnerships create a comprehensive and diverse global network of palaeontological data.

2, 4, 6

(G) Ensure ethical and legal compliance

All

Addressing ethical and legal considerations, including data privacy, security and intellectual property rights, ensures responsible data management and sharing.

1, 4, 6, 7

(H) Advocate for policy support

All

Advocating for policy support at institutional, national and international levels is required to create an environment for these systems to thrive.

All