Why create a Data Management Plan (DMP)?
Funding requirements:
- Funding bodies are increasingly requiring DMPs, and it is becoming best practice.
Outline plans for sharing:
- Preservation and sharing of data (the nature of and the restrictions applied to sharing)
- Deciding what data is being collected and how it is being collected.
When should you start thinking about data?
- From the beginning or as soon as possible.
- Data must be created with longevity in mind.
- Data needs to be curated.
- Research data is any information that has been collected, observed, generated or created to validate original research findings.
- Bear in mind the DMP is a living document and will need to be revisited multiple times in the course of a project.
- You may not be able to answer every question at the beginning which is normal. But keep the questions in mind and adapt your plan as your research changes.
How can you create a DMP?
Use a free online tool like DMP Online. This is particularly useful if you have a large group, want to assign roles, and want to be able to review your DMP at a glance. You can log in using your institutional account or create a free account.
Use a template. There are several DMP templates available to use from the library, contact the Open Scholarship librarian for assistance.
What if I need some help?
Contact any member of the Open Research Support Unit in particular the open scholarship librarian and the data manager.
Useful Links
- TU Dublin Library Guide
- DMP Online (Institutional login)
- DCC (resources, examples, guides, and tips)
- DCMI: Dublin Core Examples