Data Management Plan
What's a data management plan?
A data management plan is a formal document that outlines what you will do with your data during and after you complete your research. We find that most researchers have some form of a data management plan, but often don't know the full scope of issues to sort out or perhaps plan to figure it out later.
What's involved in developing one?
Developing a data management plan can be time consuming, tedious, and daunting, but it's a very important step in ensuring that your research data is safe and sound for the present and future. With the right process and framework it doesn't take too long and can pay-off enormously in the long-run.
Who's requiring a plan?
Many federal funding agencies are now starting to require formalized Data Management Plans. Beginning on January 18, 2011, the National Science Foundation will require a 2-page plan as part of the formal, peer-reviewed proposal process. Other agencies will likely follow close behind.
We can help
We have been working closely with the University's Vice President for Research and Vice President/Chief Information Officer to make the development of data management plans a much less complicated task for you. Through a process of getting to know your research and data, we will match your specific needs with our knowledge of data management best practices in your field, to help you develop a data management plan that will work for you. By doing this work at the beginning of your research process, you will have a far easier time following-through and complying with funding agency and publisher requirements.
For those applying to funding agencies that require Data Management or Sharing Plan, see the SciDaC group's Data Management Plan Support page to begin the process. Contact the SciDaC group if you have questions, and would like feedback on your plan.
