The key to successful data management is to create a Data Management Plan (DMP). Ideally, it is written at the start of your research project. However, since it is a dynamic document, you might need to update it from time to time while conducting your research. The DMP outlines all the different aspects of data management before, during, and after your research. It explains how you plan to manage, describe, analyze, store, share, and preserve your data.

 

This document by Science Europe includes a useful template with guidelines for creating your DMP.

 

Your DMP contains:

1. A description of your data and how it is collected,

2. The documentation you will use,

3. The storage and backup plan,

4. Ethical conduct, legal conduct,

5. Data sharing and long-term preservation (availability and accessibility),

6. Responsibilities and resources (who handles the data, and what supports it).

 

There might be differences in the data management policies of various organizations and institutions. Hence, it is important to make yourself familiar with the specific policies, rules, and regulations for data management of the organization or institution for which you are performing your research project. 

 

Tilburg University also has its own guidelines for research data management. This webpage on the Tilburg University website provides abundant information on how to handle research data in line with the university’s policies. This document includes Tilburg University’s Research Data Management Regulations for researchers.