Research Data Management: Data Management Plans

Data Management Plans (DMPs) are fundamental to ensuring research data are managed to the highest practicable standards throughout the research lifecycle. They:

• Define the nature and scope of the data 
• Document any ethical, legal or commercial requirements (where applicable)
• Record practical arrangements for managing and sharing the data in line with BU policies

Data Management Plans are required because:

• The templates function as a checklist to help researchers comply with legislative and policy requirements. By completing a DMP, researchers will be prompted to consider and document which of these apply to their data, and the practical steps needed to fulfil them. 
• Linked to this, a DMP can save time for researchers by pointing them in the direction of appropriate support early on. For example, consideration of storage needs might flag the need to consult with IT Services about access to alternative storage solutions. If left too late, this can build in delay and possibly disappointment. 
• Mistakes with data management can be very costly and difficult to correct in retrospect. DMPs are designed to prevent this by requiring researchers to plan for good practice from the start. For example, reducing the risk of losing data by implementing data security measures appropriate to your data.

Data Management Plans must be completed using DMP Online. It has the following advantages:

• It contains BU and funder templates.
• Integrated guidance within each template.
• The ability to share plans with research partners and supervisors.
• Allow research partners and supervisors to add comments or edit the plans.
• It's a record of all research data for which BU is ultimately responsible.

Unless there's a funder requirement to use a specific template, the BU DMP template must be used.

• To begin using the system you first need to create an account. Remember to select Bournemouth University from the list of organisations when you do this. Thereafter you will be able to sign in via BU's single sign on.
• To access the BU template, log-in and click 'Create Plan'. Fill in the form, and make sure 'Bournemouth University' is selected as the primary research organisation. In addition, tick the box that says 'No funder associated with this plan or my funder is not listed'. Then click 'Create plan'. This will load the BU template.