NIAID FreeStuff: A Web-based forum to promote resource sharing and reuse

Thursday, October 11, 2012 — Poster Session IV
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.	Natcher Conference Center, Building 45	NIAID	RSCHSUPP-24

Authors

• C. Yu
• J. Barnett
• Y. Huyen
• G.S. Shinko

Abstract

NIAID created a Web-based forum, FreeStuff, that facilitates and promotes the sharing of resources among NIAID staff and divisions. FreeStuff provides a place for scientists and administrators to post, search, and exchange equipment and supplies. By obtaining items from FreeStuff, staff are able to re-use existing resources instead of purchasing new ones – allowing them to stretch their budgets and reduce waste. Staff members can post and browse available items by category. It is simple to use, and it allows staff members to include comments as well as images in their postings. Comments or questions posted within the forum are automatically emailed to respective parties, facilitating communication between the posting staff member and potential item recipient. The forum also highlights NIH and NIAID policy information and resources related to property transfers. The NIAID FreeStuff program has resulted in over $31,000 savings in its first six months of use after being piloted in the Division of Intramural Research in October 2011 and launched to all of NIAID in early January 2012. The NIAID FreeStuff team is currently working with others at NIH to establish FreeStuff NIH-wide so that all IC’s can post and exchange items.

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