RECORD KEEPING & DATA MANAGEMENT
Introduction
Data are any information or observations that are associated with a particular project, including
experimental specimens, technologies, pictures, and products related to the research. The
primary role of data management is to ensure the highest possible degree of integrity, reliability
and continuity in research. It also affords some level of institutional memory. A secondary role is
to ensure that all methods and practices adhere to the timeline from data collection to data
analysis and publication.
Data management is one of the essential areas of responsible conduct of research. Oversight of
data management represents a significant investment of time and effort by the researcher. For
oversight to be thorough and correct, researchers must understand the basic concepts of
management and ensure that every member of the research team is involved in the planning,
implementation, and maintenance of data management policies and procedures.