Data Management Planning

What is a Data Management [and Sharing] Plan?

A Data Management Plan (DMP) or a Data Management and Sharing Plan (DMSP), here referred to simply as a “Plan,” is usually a short (normally two-page) document submitted with grant applications to describe the data management practices that will be adopted during a research project. In response to the OSTP Public Access Memo from 2013, most funding agencies require a Plan with every funding proposal, and Plans can play a role in a funder’s award decision. 

Funders typically outline or link to their Plan requirements in their funding announcements, and each RFP/RFA/PA can vary!  

How do I write a Plan?

1. Check the requirements for your funding opportunity.
   Requirements can vary from funder to funder, year to year, and by specific funding opportunity.
2. Consult a template and/or example plans.
   See our Guides and Templates page for templates and examples. DMPTool also provides online templates for a number of funders.
3. Consider your data management needs.
   Our Data Management Planning Workbook has simple questions to help you anticipate your data management, storage, security, and sharing needs, so you can easily translate your answers into your Plan.
4. Be realistic.
   Funders expect you to stick to your Plan, so be realistic about what is feasible with your time and resources.

Who can help with Plans?

The Research Data Service provides fast, free, and confidential feedback on draft Plans. We work with library-based subject experts so that our feedback incorporates disciplinary and data management expertise. Send us your draft Plan, funding announcement, and Sponsored Programs Administration (SPA) deadline by email or filling out this form.  If you’ve created your Plan in the DMPTool, select the “Request Feedback” option on the last page of your Plan template to contact us for a review.