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This report explores the important aspects of data handling and storage in the context of future research networks and the associated services. The study encompasses networking requirements, storage, middleware, data policies, and data origin, each of which is considered from the standpoint of five disciplines: Genomics, High Energy Physics, Digital Cultural Heritage, Radio Astronomy, and Distributed Music Performance.

The NREN Futures study is a sub-study of the ASPIRE project and was set up to look at the current state of NRENs in Europe. From this, recommendations can be made as to how the NRENs should develop to take advantage of developments in technology and business practice in the next five to ten years.

The study used a variety of methods: questionnaires, surveys, interviews and the expertise of the panel members, to collect and analyse the current status, and then to predict how the NREN environment is likely to change in the future. A remarkably consistent view of future developments emerged from the different parts of the study and a range of recommendations and findings are detailed in the study. Because the state of development of the NRENs differs widely, the list of recommendations will be applicable to individual NRENs in different ways and should be adapted and adopted by the NRENs, as they deem appropriate.

The recommendations are:
›› The European Research and Education (R&E) Networking Community (NRENs, DANTE, TERENA, and user stakeholders) need an efficient, strategic management body to act as a single point of contact, capable of responding quickly and with authority.