Access and reuse

Access and reuse depends on a variety of factors, including the format in which your data is stored, the tools used to create and manage it, and the policies governing its use. The key consideration is planning who, and under what conditions, can access your data.

Learn more

Again, we would like to refer you to modules from the RDM 101 course and links from the PhD Supervisors guide for more information on this topic:

• RDM 101 - Module 3 - Access to Data
• RDM 101 - Module 4 - Data access and Data publication
• PhD Supervisors guide - Discover & Reuse

To ensure that your data can be accessed and reused in the future, consider the following practices:

1. Choose the right format: Opting for widely accepted, non-proprietary, and open formats ensures that your data remains accessible and usable over time, even as technology evolves. Formats such as CSV for tabular data, TXT or Markdown for text, and PNG for images are examples of formats that are more likely to be supported in the long term. This increases the likelihood that your data will be accessible in the future, regardless of changes in technology or software.
2. Document your data: Documenting the context and structure of your data to enhance its reusability. Providing metadata, clear file naming conventions, and a README file explaining the dataset can significantly improve the chances of your data being understood and reused by others, including your future self.
3. Follow data management best practices: Implement data management best practices, such as version control, regular backups, and secure storage. This will help ensure that your data remains accessible and usable over time.
4. Consider data sharing policies: Be aware of any data sharing policies or regulations that may apply to your data. This includes understanding the rights and permissions associated with your data, as well as any restrictions on its use or distribution.

Tip: Explore our Data sharing guide for more information.

5. Plan for long-term storage: Consider how your data will be stored and accessed in the long term. This may involve using cloud storage solutions, institutional repositories, or other platforms that provide reliable access to your data over time.

Tip: Explore our section Data storage for more information on data storage options.

6. Archive in a trusted repository: Deposit your data in a trusted data repository. Repositories like 4TU.ResearchData provide long-term storage, preservation, and access services, making it easier for others to find and reuse your data.

Tip: Explore our section Archive and publish for information on archiving your research data.