Methodology

The Data Asset Framework recommends that audits of research data assets proceed as a four step process:

In the planning stage the purpose and scope of the audit is defined. Preliminary research is conducted and meetings scheduled to optimise time spent with the organisation’s staff. The purpose of the second stage, identifying research data, is to establish what data assets exist and classify them according to the purposes of the survey. The classification step determines the scope of further activities, as only selected aspects will be assessed in greater detail. The information collected in Stage 3 will assist auditors to identify weaknesses in data policy and current data creation and curation procedures. This will provide the basis of recommendations in the final stage. The knowledge gained from the assessment survey will enable organisations to plan improvements in data management.

The current version of the methodology is available to download. An Implementation Guide is also available. We welcome your feedback and would been keen to hear the experiences of those who have implemented the methodology to add their lessons as guidance.

The DAF online tool may assist those seeking to construct a registry of data assets as part of an audit. A screencast is available which illustrates the scope and usage of the online tool.

Data Asset Framework