Skip to Main Content

Research Data Management

Research Data Management, or RDM as you will often see it referred to, is simply managing and organizing the data that is generated as a result of your research throughout the entire research life cycle. You certainly have some form of RDM already; this g

Introduction

How you choose to store and secure your data makes a significant impact on whether it will truly be available when needed in the future. You must keep in mind the formats your data are stored in, the devices and locations in which they are stored, as well as methods for keeping your data secure, which may include anonymization of data, encryption, and physical security.

Data Storage & Security

  1. The accessibility of your data depends on both the quality of the storage media and the availability of appropriate data-reading equipment. While outdated technology might still work, it requires the right machinery to still be readable and usable. These days, technology turns over faster than ever so ensure that whatever format you choose, it will have longevity.

     

  2. File formats are just as susceptible to obsolescence as physical media. Use recommended formats to ensure that your data is accessible.

     

  3. The University of Lethbridge has joined the Digital Research Alliance of Canada. To learn more about data storage options and training provided by the Alliance, check out the Data Storage Solutions and Preservation document.

     

  4. U of L Information Technology Services (ITS) supports several different services for storing and sharing files. They, along with Records Management, have created guidelines that are intended to help identify the most appropriate places to maintain file storage here: https://uleth.sharepoint.com/sites/RecordsManagement/SitePages/Data-Storage-Guidelines.aspx

Backups

Imagine the heartache of losing everything you've worked on so far...

Back up your work. Best practice is to have 3 copies:

Here - local/working copy on your device

Near - other local or external copy (such as an external hard drive)

Far - remote copy (a secure option in the cloud)

For example you could have copies in:

  • Your laptop (here),
  • An external hard drive (near),
  • Simmons O Drive (far).

Tri-Agency Guidance on Research Security

Research security refers to the actions that safeguard the integrity of research domestically and internationally, with a particular emphasis on protecting against threats to national and economic security. This includes actions that safeguard against the theft and misappropriation of research, as well as the unauthorized transfer of ideas, research outcomes, and intellectual property.

For more information, check out the Tri-Agency Guidance on Research Security page from NSERC,

The linked Tri-Agency webpage provides guidance for the research community, with regards to the implementation of research security measures by the federal granting agencies. The Tri-Agency encourages all members of the research community to familiarize themselves with this guidance, as well as the linked policies, guidelines, and resources provided by the Government of Canada. (NSERC, 2024)

Inspiration for this file storage and security advice comes from Simmons University Library. Gratefully reused with permission.