Data management for RDI

Research data management in RDI projects

Many RDI projects collect or produce research data, which is why responsible data management is an important part of an RDI project.

What is research data?

Research data covers all material collected or produced in order to carry out research or development work and on which the work’s results are based. Different RDI projects generate different amounts and types of research data.

Research data can include e.g. the following:

• measurement results
• surveys and interviews
• sound recordings and videos
• research diaries and notes
• drawings, photographs, text samples and other collected material
• samples
• new material created based on another material
• feedback
• workshop material
• self-created material, such as software, 3D modellings, etc. (excluding publications)

What is responsible data management?

Responsible research data management (RDM) means that

• research data is described in an understandable way (metadata)
• research data is created, stored and organised in a way that keeps the data usable and reliable
• data protection and data security are ensured
• the collection or production of data has complied with legislation and responsible conduct of research

Why is data management so important?

Well-managed data is reliable and provides a foundation for the conclusions of the research or development work. Furthermore,

• data management is a part of the responsible conduct of research that also applies to RDI activities
• Matters concerning the data have been agreed upon right at the start.
• The data produced in the project is kept safe and can be easily found.
• The data is understandable, for you and for others.
• it enables the re-use of the data and saves resources
• it is a prerequisite for opening the data
• data management is considered a merit. The data can be cited and used as foundation for publications
• The organisation is aware of the data being produced in projects and where it is located.

• RDI activities are impactful and visible.

Stages of Research data management (RDM)

There is three stages in research data management.

1. Before or at the start of the RDI project

Data management plan (using DMPTuuli). Legislation, agreements, guidelines and ethics.

2. During the RDI project

Research data collection or production, taking into consideration the required permits and informing research participants. Data processing and description. Data storage, taking into consideration data protection and data security. Research data or parts of it can be opened already at this stage.

3. At the completion of the RDI project

Opening, archiving or destroying data. Reporting data to the data catalogue. Possible re-use in new projects, teaching, studies or businesses.

Data management support

The data support services include:

• Guidance on data management and open RDI
• Workshops and project meetings, e.g. for creating the data management plan
• Feedback on your plan in DMPTuuli
• IDA storage spaces
• Data catalogue, dataset pages and the opening of data

Contact us:

datatuki@metropolia.fi