Think about how much storage space will you need for this project, both at the start and in later phases of the project. Remember that you can include line item funding requests for data management activities in your grant proposal.
Storage options: | When to use: | Details: |
Servers (networks) | The preferred option, because servers provide storage, backup, and recovery. |
Your department can purchase extra storage space from NAU ITS -- see the NAUShares page for information about pricing and requesting storage. NAUShares is designed to share documents across a department, but you can work with ITS to set access permissions for your files. |
Desktop and laptop computers | If you need to save your files to the computer's hard drive, create a backup copy as soon as you can. | While you'll most likely be entering data on a desktop or laptop, save the files to a server whenever possible. |
Cloud storage | Use only for data backups and never for sensitive data. | Be sure to read the terms and conditions before purchasing commercial cloud storage -- avoid services that will claim ownership of your data as soon as you upload it. |
Removable media (CDs, DVDs, flash drives, etc) | Generally not recommended because they fail frequently. | If you choose to keep a third or fourth copy of your data on removable media, be sure to check these media frequently and replace them as needed. |
Create a plan for backing up your data and determine where these backups will be stored.
Back up data at regular intervals or after every notable change to your data |
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Keep at least 3 copies that are geographically distributed |
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Even if you're not working with sensitive data that could be linked to a particular person, you still want to consider:
Computer security |
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Access | Know who has access to your lab area, your computers, and your data. Ideally, you want to restrict access to only your research group or your collaborators on a particular project. |
Recommendations are based on: