Definitions

Data

At a broad level, data are facts, measurements, records, recordings or observations considered collectively for reference or analysis (Adapted from: Tri-Agency 204 RDM Policy FAQ). Data can occur in a variety of formats that include but are not limited to:

• Notebooks
• Text
• Numbers
• Symbols
• Survey responses
• Software & code
• Measurements from laboratory of field equipment (e.g. IR spectra, hygrothermograph charts)
• Images (e.g. photographs, films, scans, autoradiograms)
• Audio recordings
• Physical samples

Data Deposit

A form of data preservation. It refers to the transfer of collected research data to a research repository. Data deposits often include accompanying information such as documentation, code, software, metadata, and any supplementary material that provide additional information about the data and context in which the data was collected and used to inform the research project. The preservation of research data is highly contextual and should be guided by disciplinary norms.

If you submit your data to a repository, or deposit it, this can help ensure that it is preserved. A good repository has stable digital storage backed up on servers so that the items within can last.

Data Repository

Refers to a recognized repository where all digital research data, metadata, and code that directly support the research conclusions in journal publications and pre-prints that arise from agency-supported research is stored. The repository should have easily accessible policies that describes the deposit and user licensing, access control, preservation of data procedures, storage and backup practices, and sustainability and succession plans. This supports ongoing data retention and, where appropriate future access to data.

Data Storage

Occurs at every stage of the research process. No matter what kind of data you have, it must be stored somewhere! When you are still using and working with your data, this may be referred to as active storage.