ARDC Handle Service
Create references to your research objects that can be maintained, even if the location changes.
Introducing the ARDC Handle Service
The ARDC Handle Service is a way to automatically assign globally unique citable identifiers, based on Handle technology, to your datasets, collections and papers.
It creates a clickable reference to your dataset that can be maintained, even if the location of the dataset changes. When people click on it, the ARDC service re-routes them to whatever location you nominate, and you can update that location at any time. This clickable or resolvable link is called a handle. The Handle system is used to create persistent identifiers where a DOI is not appropriate or cannot be created.
The ARDC Handle Service is available cost-free for Australian organisations and individuals creating, using or curating publicly available research data.
For Your Different Handle Needs
There are 3 ways to use the ARDC Handle Service:
Use theARDC
Handle ServiceToday.
Create references to your research objects that can be maintained.
Create handlesCheck our identifier decision tree to see if handles are right for your needs. Handles are used where a DOI is not appropriate or cannot be created.
Note that the ARDC does not manage the handles. It only provides the infrastructure to allow minting, resolution and updating of them. Processes and policies need to be put in place by those utilising the product to ensure that appropriate maintenance practices underpin persistence.
