Two of the biggest challenges of aggregating data and giving credit to the sources are duplication and ambiguity. The easiest way to resolve this is through unique persistent identifiers to objects, events and people. In pro-iBiosphere we have discussed at length identifiers for specimens (http://wiki.pro-ibiosphere.eu/wiki/Best_practices_for_stable_URIs). However; a solution already exists for people. ORCID is an open, non-profit, community-driven organization that provides a registry of unique and persistent researcher identifiers.

ORCID is a hub that connects researchers and their professional activities through the embedding of ORCID iDs in key research workflows, data systems and other identifier systems. ORCID is unique in its ability to reach across disciplines, research sectors and national boundaries and in its cooperation with other identifier systems. The ORCID iD is a key component that supports system interoperability.

• ORCID improves discoverability and reduces repetitive data entry.
• ORCID reduces activity reporting, eases staff burden, and simplifies the manuscript submission processes.
• ORCID iDs overcome name ambiguity, distinguishing researchers and ensuring work is correctly attributed.
• ORCID supports a more comprehensive understanding of global research, investment and impact.

Working in collaboration with others in the research community — universities, research organizations, funders, publishers and professional associations — the embedding of ORCID iDs is widespread and includes integration in researcher profile systems, manuscript submission processes, HR systems, grant applications, and in linkages with repositories and other researcher identifier systems. ORCID benefits the entire research community, and relies upon its organizational members for support.

Registration is free for researchers, and they control the privacy of their ORCID record. It only takes seconds to register — visit ORCID today.

Quentin Groom (http://orcid.org/0000-0002-0596-5376)
Rebecca Bryant (http://orcid.org/0000-0002-2753-3881)