Data Management is generally considered as any activity involving data outside of actually using the data.

For example:

• Organising data into directories/folders and using meaningful filenames.
• Keeping backups of data.
• Storing final state data in an archive.
• Making data available to others via an archive or website.
• Ensuring security of confidential data.
• Collaboratively creating and using data with other researchers.
• Synchronising data between desktop, laptop, USB, cloud storage, etc.
• Maintaining a bibliography and electronic copies of relevant literature.

Managing your data allows you to work more efficiently, produce higher quality data, achieve greater exposure for your research, and protect your data from being lost or misused.

By forward-planning and using more efficient methods of data management, more time can be spent using the data productively.