Decide what data to preserve
The process of science generates a variety of products that are worthy of preservation. Researchers should consider all elements of the scientific process in deciding what to preserve:
data archives
Ensure datasets used are reproducible
When searching for data, whether locally on one's machine or in external repositories, one may use a variety of search terms. In addition, data are often housed in databases or clearinghouses where a query is required in order access data. In order to reproduce the search results and obtain similar, if not the same results, it is necessary to document which terms and queries were used.
Ensure flexible data services for virtual datasets
In order for a large dataset to be effectively used by a variety of end users, the following procedures for preparing a virtual dataset are recommended:
Ensure integrity and accessibility when making backups of data
For successful data replication and backup:
Ensure the reliability of your storage media
All storage media, whether hard drives, discs or data tapes, will wear out over time, rendering your data files inaccessible. To ensure ongoing access to both your active data files and your data archives, it is important to continually monitor the condition of your storage media and track its age. Older storage media and media that show signs of wear should be replaced immediately. Use the following guidelines to ensure the ongoing integrity and accessibility of your data:
Identify data sensitivity
Steps for the identification of the sensitivity of data and the determination of the appropriate security or privacy level are:
Identify data with long-term value
As part of the data life cycle, research data will be contributed to a repository to support preservation and discovery. A research project may generate many different iterations of the same dataset - for example, the raw data from the instruments, as well as datasets which already include computational transformations of the data.
Identify suitable repositories for the data
Shaping the data management plan towards a specific desired repository will increase the likelihood that the data will be accepted into that repository and increase the discoverability of the data within the desired repository. When beginning a data management plan:
