What is Research data management (RDM)?
RDM can be defined as a process which consists of two components:
This guide will assist with the processes of both these components.
Official Definition at Stellenbosch University:
Recorded information, obtained during a research process, regardless of form or the media on which it may be recorded. The term includes computer software (computer programmes, databases and documentation thereof), and records of scientific or technical nature. The term does not include information incidental to research administration such as financial, administrative, cost or pricing, or management information. In practice research data include both intangible data (statistics, findings, conclusions) and tangible data. Tangible data include, but are not limited to notes, printouts, electronic storage, photographs, slides, negatives, films, scans, images, autoradiograms, electro-physical recordings, gels, blots, spectra, cell lines, reagents, modified organisms, specimens, consent forms, case report forms, collected organisms and other materials that are relevant to the research project.
Source:
Stellenbosch University Research Data Management Regulations
Researchers should take cognisance of the following goals of research data management: