Skip to Main Content

Research Data Management

What is a data management plan (DMP)?

"A formal plan describing how research data are managed throughout the lifecycle of a research project. Plans cover topics such as data collection, metadata and documentation, data sharing, and preservation. Portage DMP Assistant is a tool for preparing data management plans (DMPs), with the option to initiate project plans, collaborate with multiple researchers, and get connected with local guidance and support with data management at your academic institution." 

 From Portage Network's Frequently Asked Questions. 

How do you create a research data management plan (DMP)?

StFX recommends DMP Assistant Tool offered by Portage Network. It is a bilingual tool that can help you prepare a data management plan. 

Step 1: Create an account - https://assistant.portagenetwork.ca/

Step 2: Sign in and select a template (The Portage template is the default).

Step 3: Answer the questions that are relevant to you work. 

Step 4: Export or print your plan, or revise and revisit the plan throughout your research.

For more help, consult the Help section of Portage's website: https://assistant.portagenetwork.ca/en/help#ToolHelp

What questions can DMP Assistant answer?

  • Data Collection
    • What data will be collected or created? How will the data be collected or created?
  • Documentation & Metadata
    • What documentation and metadata (description of the data) will accompany the data?
  • Storage & Backup
    • How will the data be stored and backed up during the project? How will access and security be managed?
  • Preservation
    • Which data should be retained, shared, and/or preserved? What is the long-term preservation plan for the dataset?
  • Sharing & Reuse
    • How will you share the data? Where? Are there any restrictions on sharing?
  • Responsibilities & Resources
    • Who will be responsible for data management? Are additional resources required?
  • Ethics & Legal Compliance
    • How will you manage any ethical issues? [anonymisation, consent agreements, sharing/privacy] How will you manage copyright and intellectual property rights?

Adapted from Dalhousie University's RDM Guide (2018).