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Library Research Guides
Trinity College
Library & Information Technology Services

Research Data Management

Data Management Plans

A Data Management Plan (DMP) serves two main purposes:

  1. As a requirement for most publicly funded research grants.
  2. As a guide for you and your lab as you collect and analyze data.

General components of a data management plan: 

Roles & Responsibilities

Best practices for dealing with data on a daily basis:

  • Define roles and assign responsibilities for data management.
  • For each task identified in your data management plan, identify the skills needed to perform the task.
  • Match skills needed to available staff and identify gaps.
  • Develop training plans for continuity.
  • Assign responsible parties and monitor results.
  • Talk to your librarian about best practices for managing lab notebooks. We can help.

Tools & Resources

Agencies that Require a DMP

Most public funding agencies require a DMP of some sort in the grant application process.

NIH and NSF policies

Supplemental information for new NIH Data Sharing Policy

Funder Policies