Preparing Data for Sharing
One of the ways that RDMS works with faculty, staff and students is to assist them in preparing data for sharing. RDMS can assist with:
- Choosing the proper repository: In some cases, the funding agency will have specific repositories they required to be utilized, such as NIH and USDA. In other cases,the funding agency may not specify a repository and the PI may deposit their data in either a field specific repository, or in USU’s institutional repository - Digital Commons.
- Metadata: Creating a README file that adequately describes your data is often essential for others to understand your data. If you deposit in Digital Commons a README is required. You may also need to create a data dictionary or codebook that defines the variables and abbreviations used in your data. Spend sometime organizing your data in a logical order and with filenames that are clear. Describe your schema in the README file.
- Knowing when to deposit your data is complicated. Sometimes it is best to deposit the data as a complete set at the end of the research project other times it is better to deposit time sensitive data as it becomes available. Some researchers place embargoes on their data for a set period. Some data need to be anonymized prior to sharing. Having someone to talk through it can help!
- The Research Data Management Services team has additional information on their website and are available to help answer your questions.