MaRDA Working Groups (WGs) accelerate progress in specific ways with the overarching goal of increasing data-driven innovation. Efforts are intended to promote data sharing and exchange; interoperability; data use and re-use; data discoverability and analysis; data stewardship and preservation; and best practices across the materials research community. WGs should try to engage all relevant stakeholders, will be led by a chair or co-chair, and manage their own membership. Each WG will include a liaison from MaRDAC.

Specific outcomes will vary, but all WGs develop final Recommendations with a focus on tangible progress. WGs strive to eliminate roadblocks faced by the community with effort focused where members can start today and get something done now. Long-term or more far-reaching solutions are more appropriately discussed through other means. The short-term, outcome-oriented focus of MARDA Working Groups means they often complement important, longer-term efforts supported by government sponsors, foundations, or the private sector. WG efforts should add value over and above what is currently being done within the community.