During the first half of the academic year, CLIC successfully developed its own comprehensive Data Management Plan (DMP). This initiative aligns with the VUB Research Data Management (RDM) Policy Framework, which requires every Research Group (RG) to establish a general DMP. The purpose of this umbrella document is to provide a clear and standardized approach to managing research data within each research group. It outlines the workflows and procedures for processing, documenting, storing, and preserving data, effectively serving as the group’s RDM strategy.
The creation of this Data Management Plan brings several important benefits to both CLIC and the central services at VUB. For researchers within the group, it offers a ready-made, up-to-date, and detailed reference when developing project-specific DMPs, reducing the time and effort required. It also serves as a reliable internal guide for handling various types of research data, ensuring consistent and compliant practices.
Moreover, the existence of a group-level DMP streamlines the review and approval process, minimizing the need for repeated communication between researchers and Data Stewards. This efficiency not only benefits individual researchers but also enhances the overall data governance at VUB. By maintaining a clear overview of the types, volumes, and storage locations of research data, central services and the RESEARCH department can more effectively anticipate support needs and develop proactive policies and resources.
In short, CLIC’s Data Management Plan is a foundational step toward more efficient, transparent, and standardized research data practices within the group and the broader VUB research community.