Managing Your Data

Data is usually considered part of the output of a research project. Having a research data management plan requires preparation and knowledge for the whole research team. 

Data Literacy

Data literacy is the ability to read, understand, create, and communicate data as information. It includes developing competency and skill in working with data. According to the Harvard Business Review, these data skills are important 

  • Ask the right questions
  • Understand which data is relevant and how to test the validity of the data they have
  • Interpret the data well, so the results are useful and meaningful
  • Test hypotheses using A/B tests to see what results pan out
  • Create easy-to-understand visualizations so leaders understand the results
  • Tell a story to help decision-makers see the big picture and act on the results of analysis
Data Literacy Tutorial

This Data Literacy Project tutorial, Understanding Data (30 minutes) helps develop an understanding of data and helps learn about different types and attributes of data.

Guidance on Data Management Plans

Some granting agencies require a data management plan (DMP) to be submitted with the grant application.

Data Management for OU Researchers

The OU Libraries Guide on Data Management has links to tools and information on data management planning.