[Taxacom] Encyclopedia of Life Curator Network plan

[Cynthia Parr]

Recently the Encyclopedia of Life released its draft plan for the Curator
Network.
http://www.eol.org/files/pdfs/docs/EOL_Curatorial_Network_Plan.pdf

We developed the plan with input from many conversations with scientists,
including some on this list , and also by observing discussions on TAXACOM.
Please let me know if you want to be credited by name for your help (though
you may want to read the plan, first!).

Some basic outlines:  EOL curators are people who can demonstrate a
commitment to quality science. They are involved in reviewing, approving,
and rating, but not changing data that has been submitted to EOL. Curators
are not given exclusive control over an area of the site, which means that
master curators may need to mediate conflicts among curators. Curators will
receive credit for their work in citations and a profile that indicates
their credentials and their level of activity. We expect curators to take
their work seriously, but recognize that it is a volunteer activity and time
investment will vary.

The first step in community involvement is to invite feedback on the
proposed process. While EOL is implementing the basic features now it is not
too late to have input. In particular, we ask the curator community to
develop specific policies about standards for accuracy and appropriateness.

To see this plan in context, please see
http://www.eol.org/content/page/help_build_eol

To comment on the plan, please consider using the EOL Forum:
http://forum.eol.org/viewtopic.php?p=2865#2865

Or discuss here, or email me personally. Thanks in advance.

Cyndy Sims Parr
EOL Species Pages Group
Director