Digital repositories and researchers’ perceptions of performance: Evidence from Serbia

Abstract

This study examines researchers’ perceptions of the impact of digital repositories on scientific efficiency and productivity in Serbia, a developing research environment with a national Open Science policy that is still in the development phase. Based on a survey conducted among 326 researchers from universities and research institutes across various disciplines, the analysis explores how professional characteristics, including institution type, academic degree, discipline, and years of experience, affect perceived benefits from repository use. Logistic regression analysis shows that researchers affiliated with institutes, those in the humanities, and mid-career researchers are significantly more likely to perceive that repositories enhance efficiency and productivity. Academic degree alone does not significantly influence perception, suggesting that repository use depends more on institutional environment, disciplinary norms, and practical experience than on formal titles. The findings highlight the importance of institutional support, early integration of repositories into research workflows, and tailored training to maximize usage and benefits. These results provide a foundation for aligning national Open Science policies with everyday research practices, supporting targeted interventions to increase repository adoption and enhance research efficiency and productivity across disciplines.