OSF

Official Resources

• Homepage: https://osf.io/
• Documentation: https://help.osf.io/
• Source Repository: https://github.com/CenterForOpenScience/osf.io
• License: Apache License 2.0

Overview

The Open Science Framework (OSF) is a free, open-source project management tool that supports researchers throughout their entire project lifecycle. It functions as a collaboration platform, allowing teams to manage files, data, code, and protocols in one centralized location. It integrates with many other services (GitHub, Dropbox, Google Drive, Dataverse) to act as a hub.

Scientific domain: Project management, open science, collaboration
Target user community: Research teams, labs

Capabilities (CRITICAL)

• Project Management: Hierarchical structure (Projects -> Components).
• Add-ons: Connects to GitHub, Dropbox, Box, Google Drive, S3, Zotero, etc.
• Registrations: Freeze a project state (preregistration).
• Preprints: Host preprints (OSF Preprints).
• Wiki: Built-in documentation.

Sources: OSF website

Inputs & Outputs

• Input formats: Files, Wikis, links
• Output data types: Project pages, DOIs (for registrations)

Interfaces & Ecosystem

• Integrations: Connects disparate tools into a single workflow.
• API: Full read/write API.

Workflow and Usage

1. Create OSF Project.
2. Add contributors.
3. Link GitHub repo (code) and Google Drive (data).
4. Write Wiki.
5. Make public when ready.

Performance Characteristics

• Cloud-based platform.
• Central hub logic.

Application Areas

• Managing lab projects.
• Preregistering studies.
• Collaborative writing.

Community and Support

• Developed by Center for Open Science (COS).
• Non-profit.

Verification & Sources

Primary sources:

1. Homepage: https://osf.io/

Confidence: VERIFIED

Verification status: ✅ VERIFIED

• Website: ACTIVE
• Documentation: COMPREHENSIVE
• Source: OPEN (GitHub)
• Development: ACTIVE
• Applications: Project management, collaboration