Research

Data Collection & Management

What is Research Data?

Research data is any information that has been collected, observed, generated or created to validate original research findings.  Although usually digital, research data also includes non-digital formats such as laboratory notebooks and diaries.

What is Research Data Management?

Good research data management (RDM) involves a holistic approach to use of data in research.  From creating a data management plan, considering what needs to be in place for collaborative working, for working with sensitive data and ensuring data security.

This also involves practical issues such as how to approach the documentation of research data, file naming and versioning and deciding which data to keep and which data to discard.

Benefits of good data management

Following good research data management procedures has many benefits including:

• Increasing the impact of your research. Good RDM supports and enhances your research.
• Avoiding duplication of effort. Good RDM ensures you can re-visit and reuse your data.
• Making it easier to share. Documenting your data throughout its lifecycle makes it easier for you to share which will increase your research impact.
• Ensuring research integrity and validation of results.
• Accountability, ensuring the results can be reproduced.

For more information about managing your research data contact:

MDS Research Administrator