Research data management
Data management plan
data management plan
what is a data management plan?
A data management plan (DMP) is one of the most important elements of informed research data management. It is a formal document that describes what will happen to the data throughout its lifecycle.
Not all data management issues can be anticipated when a DMP is first drafted. Initial assumptions need to be made, and the plan must be updated regularly thereafter.
Every dataset is unique in its own way, so it is difficult to have ready-made solutions for data management (much more difficult than, for example, for publications). However, where standards have been developed – vocabularies, methodologies, metadata or specialised repositories prevalent in the research area – it is all the more important to use them.
Requirements for data management plans
EUROPEAN COMMISSION | HORIZON EUROPE
A mandatory element of the open access policy in Horizon Europe programme is responsible data management in accordance with the FAIR principles. This means in particular creating data management plans as well as ensuring open access to research data in line with the principles set out in the grant agreement and under the principle: as open as possible, as closed as necessary.
Data management plan in Horizon Europe:
- Is an integral part of the project management methodology.
- Is a living document, and as such should be updated and enriched over the course of the project.
- When suitable, should be made openly available.
- Is not required in its full version at funding application stage – this should be delivered within the first six months of the project.
- It may – but does not have to – be based on a template provided on the European Commission’s website.
NATIONAL SCIENCE CENTRE | ALL CALLS
Research data management is addressed in the NCN’s Open access policy. It is compulsory to prepare a full version of a data management plan at the funding application stage for all calls (see guidelines). It is also required to make openly available all the research data underlying the publications resulting from the project.
Data management plan at the National Science Centre:
- Is directly linked to the research plan and may be subject to change during the course of the project.
- Should be prepared following the guidelines available on the website.
- Is included in the yearly and final reporting.
- Is subject to formal and substantive assessment.