Developing an institutional repository using Digital Commons

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to share the knowledge and lessons learned about the process of developing an institutional repository (IR) using a hosted solution, Digital Commons from bepress, and to make the case that Digital Commons is still the best IR solution for smaller university libraries. Design/methodology/approach This is a case study based on Rowan University Libraries developing an IR using the Digital Commons platform. Findings To implement a hosted solution successfully, key actions include defining the repository’s scope and mission early in the process, including a variety of stakeholders in promoting the repository, integrating the repository with a faculty profile system and being able to effectively work collaboratively with both internal and external professionals in developing the system. Originality/value This paper will be valuable to academic librarians considering implementing an IR on, or migrating an existing repository to, the Digital Commons platform.