Position on Data Acquisition

Data management practices are becoming increasingly complex and should be addressed before any data are collected by taking into consideration four important issues:

· ownership,

· collection,

· storage, and

· sharing

The integrity of data and, by implication, the usefulness of the research it supports, depends on careful attention to detail, from initial planning through final publication. Key considerations for data collection include using the appropriate method, providing attention to detail, obtaining the appropriate permissions for use of certain categories of data and the accurate and secure recording of data.  Data should be maintained and secured in such a way as allow it to confirm research findings, establish priority, and be reanalyzed by other researchers.  Data should be stored in such a way as to protect confidentiality, be secure from physical and electronic damage and destruction and be maintained for the appropriate time frame dictated by the sponsor and/or data source.