What does DMP mean in TRANSPORTATION

A Data Management Plan (DMP) is a document that outlines the processes and procedures for data organization, storage, management, preservation, and sharing for research projects. It specifies what data will be created and/or collected, how it will be treated during and after the project's completion, and who owns it.

Utilizing a DMP provides numerous benefits to both researchers and institutions. Researchers are able to share their results more easily with other colleagues in their field of study. As well, archiving data in an organized manner helps avoid any future loss or damage to research findings. Lastly, since many funders now require DMPs as part of funding applications, having one gives an applicant greater chances of being successful in obtaining financial support.

Any individual or group involved in research should consider creating a DMP depending on the scope of their work. The document is beneficial for academic researchers, government agencies, industry professionals, student project teams etcetera. Furthermore, since many funders now require applicants to submit a DMP with their proposals for financial support having one prepared can make all the difference when pursuing external funding sources.

Depending on the specific institution's rules and regulations regarding research projects there may be some review process required before proceeding with your project. Ultimately every effort should be taken to ensure that any proposed activities listed within your plan have been properly approved prior to commencing your research efforts.

Generally speaking most plans will have sections covering topics such as project overview; data collection; metadata & documentation; storage & backups; preservation & archiving; sharing & publications; ethical considerations; long term stewardship plan; budgeting & cost analysis etcetera

In general each funder has different requirements related to data management which may mean needing slightly different information included within your plan for particular grant proposals. However if only minor changes are expected across all applications it could be possible to create one plan template that you then tailor when necessary without having to completely re-write each time you apply for external funding sources.

Depending on the complexity of your project it may be necessary to update your plan throughout its duration as new procedures or guidelines may arise while conducting your research efforts which would need noting down into your document. At least annually though it would be advised that all documents like this are reviewed just in case any revisions are needed due changes in technologies or software utilized over time as well as ensure compliance with any institutional policies.