What happens after data is deposited?

After depositing your research data, Sikt will do the following: 

Data will be assessed 

We will evaluate if the data can be archived with us. If so, the data will be curated according to a curation level decided by the characteristics of the data.

Data and metadata will be quality-controlled

The file format, variables, and related documentation will be checked for readability. 

Data will be checked for anonymization

We will assist and suggest anonymization measures for quantitative data. For qualitative data, it is required to document that you have permission to archive and share data with (at least) indirect personal data, as anonymization might reduce the reusability of such data.

A data processing agreement must be in place between the research data archive and the responsible research institution in order to archive personal data (either indirect or direct). 

Data will be safeguarded for long-term preservation

The file format will be safeguarded for long-term preservation, making the data readable and usable for at least ten years. 

Data will be documented  

The data will be documented to ensure its understandability and reusability in the future, using well-known metadata standards such as DDI and Dublin Core. Version control will also be applied to document data revisions. 

How data is documented is determined by the curation level the data material is placed in.

Data will be published and assigned a persistent identifier

Information about the data is published on our websites, and the data is assigned a DOI for easy access and citation. 

Data will be managed

Access to the data will be controlled according to the access conditions specified by the data owner. The access conditions state how and by whom the data can be downloaded or ordered.