A group leader approached the Service Center Research Data because he wished to set up a central group drive for the entire group. But which data should be stored on it? And how can it be ensured that this data can also be found and understood 5 years down the road? 

Over time, the working methods within a research group change. New employees join it and old ones leave the group. New research projects are launched or novel research questions arise. When working methods change, so does the way in which the associated data is managed. 

A meaningful folder structure makes it easier to maintain an overview of one's own data. Working with the group leader, the working methods of the research group were analyzed and the processes of how data is collected and processed were revealed. By mapping all the data and through detailed discussions, categories were created according to which the data could be organized in a natural fashion, and which presented a research-oriented folder structure. 

Apart from the categorization of data in a folder structure, it is also helpful to define which data is to be stored in which form and by which name. Together with the research group, guidelines for uniform documentation and a naming convention were developed. 

Have you ever wanted to be able to quickly and easily find and understand your colleagues' data? 

You are very welcome to get in touch with us. Feel free to contact us by e-mail via Service Center Research Data or book an appointment appointment.