
Writing a data management plan: storage and security
This unit introduces you to issues involved in storing, securing and backing up your research data. After completing this unit you will:
- Be aware of the options available to you to safely store your data.
- Recognise the importance of data backups.
- Use the information featured in the unit to secure your data through the course of your research.
Your data is the life blood of your research. If you lose your data recovery could be slow, costly or even worse, it could be impossible. Therefore, through the course of your research you must ensure that all your research data, regardless of format, are stored securely, backed up and maintained regularly.
You should estimate the volume of data required for your project at an early stage, probably, while drawing up your data management plan. It is also a good idea to consider including costs for data storage in funding proposals.
These may all sound common sense to you now but the time will come when you will be glad that you have considered these right at the begining of your research and taken the necessary precautions.