At the start of your research project you will be planning to either use data from other sources, or collect your own data.

These are some of the things you should plan for:

• What kind of data will you be collecting? Think about methodologies (and the type of data they are likely to produce).  The Sage Research Methods Online database has examples of over 150 datasets, and data analysis techniques for quantitative and qualitative research that might be of interest.
• How will you manage, describe and store the data files? What statistical analysis software and file types and what file naming conventions/folders/metadata schemas you will adopt.
• Will your data contain sensitive information requiring secure storage, and conditions of access as well as the usual Ethics approvals?
• If you decide to share your data, how will you license it to ensure copyright or moral rights protections
• How long your data should be retained, or embargoed

Who should submit a Plan?

Research Data Management (RDM) is a recommendation of the Australian Code for Responsible Conduct of Research as well as being required by many funding bodies. Many funding bodies require RDM to be specifically addressed in the applications.

Charles Sturt has an RDM policy requiring all active research projects (whether funded externally or not) to have a RDM Plan.

The plan can be added to or amended as the research project evolves. If you need assistance contact researchsupport@csu.edu.au

Access the online Form

Note: this form is also serves as a request for Research Data Storage at Charles Sturt.

Approval and peer review process

Copies of the form go to:

• The researcher
• Nominated supervisor
• Research Outputs email (The Office of Research Services and Graduate Studies)
• Manager, Spatial Data Analysis Network
• DIT Manager, Systems
• Manager, Research (Library)
• Manager, Cataloguing & Metadata (Library)

Subsequent editing and updates to the Plan: The researcher should use the online form to resubmit previously submitted details, along with the updated information.  This process creates a new copy.

For Higher Degree Research students, your supervisor needs to sign the form. The plan will be emailed to you. You can forward it to your supervisor. The supervisor can sign using the 'signing' feature on the PDF.

Help is available at any stage of research. Ask your experienced colleagues, your supervisor, or contact researchsupport@csu.edu.au