How Do I Create a Data Management Plan?
Contents
What is a Data Management Plan?
A Data Management Plan (DMP) contains information on how the research team intends to handle research data both during the research project and after the project is complete. Many research sponsors require a DMP as part of the application process.
Do I Need a DMP?
Many funding agencies currently require a DMP as part of the grant application process. The Tri-Agencies will require a DMP as part of a pilot set of funding applications in 2022-2023. A DMP assists researchers with managing their data, meeting funder requirements, enhancing collaboration between researchers, and data reuse. It is good practice for all researchers to document a research project data plan even if they are not seeking funding.
Common Elements of Data Management Plans
Some funders may require specific content, but generally most DMPs include:
- Project overview or abstract
- Team members expertise and responsibilities
- Data description
- Procedures for collection and/or acquisition of data
- Documentation procedures
- Data storage and preservation plans
- Data sharing plans
- Special notes about sensitive data, including legal, ethics or intellectual property issues
Resources to Create a DMP
DMP Assistant is a free, bilingual online tool that assists researchers to develop a data management plan.
This checklist can help to identify DMP requirements and assist with outlining the procedures to be followed for data management throughout the research project lifecycle.
This guide provides an outline of typical DMP questions accompanied by assisted guidance. The guide is curated and updated by the U of T Libraries.
Applicants can consult the sections provided in the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) guide as applicable to their research project.
This checklist can help to identify DMP requirements and assist with outlining the procedures to be followed for data management throughout the research project lifecycle.
This database compiles global DMP examples, including those from organizations like the Digital Research Alliance of Canada, National Institutes of Health (NIH), and others, into a single, searchable open-access platform.
Upcoming Webinar: What is a Data Management Plan and Why Do I Need One?
This workshop is intended to provide a basic overview of Data Management Plans (DMPs), a tool often used to lay a foundation for good research data management practices through the life of a research project and beyond. This workshop will cover the components of a typical data management plan and share resources available to support researchers and their teams to get started.
April 4, 2024, 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Session & Registration Details
Get Help with Data Management
The University of Toronto Libraries offers a DMP consultation service.
