Based on the signed agreement, PCG Academia will install and configure the DSpace 8 CRIS scientific repository system at the Latvian Academy of Culture (LKA) in Riga. The project involves the comprehensive implementation of the platform in a cloud environment provided by the university, including full adaptation of the system to the specific nature of an arts institution. This includes both the technical launch of the repository and its configuration for the registration, presentation, and sharing of scientific achievements and artistic works characteristic of the LKA. 

Scope of the project at LKA  

The scope of work in the project includes comprehensive activities related to the implementation and personalization of the repository. At the beginning, the team will conduct a preliminary technical and functional analysis to accurately determine the needs and requirements related to the system. Next, the repository will be installed and configured in the DSpace 8 CRIS version, providing modern capabilities for managing data and institutional resources.  

The next stage will be the personalization of the user interface, including, among other things, changing the logo and adapting the color scheme to the visual identity of the institution. The system will also be properly prepared for recording and presenting artistic achievements, which will allow for the proper representation of the specific nature of non-publication materials.  

As part of the project, a multimedia player will be implemented to support audio and video files, which will extend the functionality of the repository with the ability to present audiovisual content. It is also planned to create user profiles and integrate the system with the SSO (Single Sign-On) login mechanism, which will simplify the authorization process and increase security.  

Finally, training will be provided for end users and repository administrators to ensure that they are adequately prepared to work with the new system. 

About DSpace CRIS  

DSpace CRIS (Current Research Information System) is an extended version of the popular DSpace system used to manage and share scientific resources. Unlike standard DSpace, which focuses mainly on archiving and presenting publications, the CRIS version enables comprehensive management of information about an institution’s research activities. It allows, among other things, the collection of data on projects, grants, research teams, researcher profiles, as well as artistic achievements and patents. Thanks to its flexible metadata structure, DSpace CRIS supports institutions in maintaining complete, up-to-date, and internationally compliant records of scientific achievements.  

The DSpace CRIS system is open source software developed by an international community, which ensures its continuous development and extensive technical support. It enables integration with external databases and information systems such as ORCID, Crossref, OpenAIRE, and identity management systems (SSO). This solution supports the processes of reporting, evaluation, and promotion of scientific activity, making it easier for higher education and research institutions to meet the requirements of transparency and open access (Open Access). DSpace CRIS is used by many universities and institutes around the world as a central platform for presenting and managing research results. 

About the university  

The Latvian Academy of Culture (Latvijas Kultūras akadēmija), founded in 1990, is the only public higher education institution in Latvia specializing in culture and the arts. Located in the Latgale district of Riga, the university offers education in areas such as music, theater, dance, visual arts, film, and media, with a strong emphasis on practical training and close ties to the Latvian artistic community. LKA is an elite place of learning with only a few hundred students, which fosters an individual approach and close contact between staff and students. The university is recognized by the Latvian Ministry of Education and is an important center for cultural studies, supporting the development of national culture and international artistic initiatives.  

PCG Academia’s experience  

PCG Academia has many years of experience in implementing the DSpace system and its CRIS version in higher education and research institutions, both in Poland and on international markets. As a platinum partner of DSpace, the company guarantees the highest standards of project implementation, providing customers with access to global knowledge resources and best practices in the field of research data and scientific output management. 

The implementation of the project for the Latvian Academy of Culture means that PCG Academia now operates in six foreign markets outside Poland, supporting renowned universities and research institutes across Europe. Cooperation with universities representing diverse academic traditions and specializations demonstrates the versatility of PCG’s solutions and their effectiveness in building modern, integrated scientific repositories.