A data management plan’s purpose is to help you, the researcher, plan for and document your research data and its management. A data management plan (DMP) describes and documents:

What research data will be collected How it will be organised The access, roles and permissions of contributors How it will be stored Plans for sharing and preservation

Internationally, many funders now require a DMP as part of the application process. NZ funders and research institutions do not currently require a DMP but this is expected to change. Developing data management skills is important to anyone pursuing a career in research.