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Data Management

  • Information on data management for researchers

Data management and open science support

  • AU Library supports good data management practices at Aarhus University
  • The library offers support for researchers and students relation to the handling of research data, guidance, planning and the sharing of data throughout the research process 

What does a good data management plan look like?

A good data management plan (DMP) describes the workflow that data undergoes in a research project, large or small. A funding provider may require that a DMP si included with the application, but in general it is a very good idea to decide how you expect to collect, store and archive/publish data.

A good DMP is a live document, that is updated throughout the entire research process and can be used to:

  • organise and structure data
  • document the provenance of data
  • avoid data loss
  • make research results reproducible
  • make it easier to reuse data for other projects    

DMPonline  

DMPonline is a tool that is used by researchers to help them create a data management plan. In collaboration with Aarhus University, AU Library offers support in using DMPonline.

Digital Curation Centre

Find examples of data management plans at the Digital Curation Centre.

How do you store your data?

Your choice of storage solution may be subject to various factors. Consider, for example, the following:

  • Does the institution or funding provider have any specific data storage requirements?
  • Is there an obligation to report to the Danish National Archives? Read more about the procedures for reporting to the Danish National Archives
  • Economy – have funds been allocated in the budget, or does a free solution need to be found?
  • Type of data – some data repositories are aimed at specific disciplines while others are generic solutions

Aarhus University offers various data storage solutions:

Other repositories

In addition to the options offered by AU, you can also find several general and specific repositories for storing/archiving data.

Which platforms can you use for collaboration and data sharing?

We have compiled a number of tools and platforms which you can use for publishing, collaboration and sharing your data. There are also examples of licenses for your data. It is important to publish your data with a license, since this informs other people what they may and may not do with your data.

Which tools can you use for data analysis?

There are many applications available for data analysis. Find examples of free applications which are suitable for analysing different data types. Employees at Aarhus University can buy licenses for various analysis software through AU's IT webshop.

FAIR principles

The FAIR data principles are a set of guiding principles to make data Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Reusable, so that data can be found, accessed and reused by others.

Read more about the FAIR principles

Need help?

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact the liason librarian associated with your field, who will be happy to assist you with your questions.

Alternatively, you are always welcome to contact your local library in AU Library.