Before you start your research, you need to carefully plan the research trajectory and consider several aspects of data management. In essence, proper planning in research data management establishes a foundation for ethical, efficient, and effective research. It enhances data quality, security, and accessibility, contributing to the credibility and long-term value of research endeavors.
By doing proper planning you ensure that data is collected accurately and consistently. Thoughtful planning reduces errors and increases the reliability and quality of the collected data, which in turn strengthens the validity of research findings. Effective planning can help you to navigate ethical considerations effectively and allocate resources efficiently. This includes determining the necessary personnel, time, funding, storage, and technology required to manage data throughout the research process.
Proper and well-planned data management contributes to the overall impact of research. High-quality, well-documented data not only strengthens the validity of research outcomes but also enhances the research's potential for influencing policy, practice, and further investigations. Finally, identifying potential challenges and risks early on will allow you to implement strategies to mitigate these risks. This can prevent issues that might otherwise compromise the research process or data quality.
To learn more about funder requirements regarding research data management, a data management plan, data management costs, and FAIR data, please explore specific topics in the sidebar.