The document provides comprehensive guidance for institutions preparing to comply with the NIH’s Final Policy for Data Management and Sharing (DMS), effective January 2023. It emphasizes the cultural shift required to prioritize data sharing throughout the research lifecycle, aiming to enhance transparency, reproducibility, and the efficient use of taxpayer-funded research. Institutions are advised to assess and leverage their existing competencies, estimate the annual need for Data Management and Sharing Plans (DMSPs), and identify principal investigators who will be newly impacted by the policy. Key recommendations include forming interdisciplinary committees, centralizing feedback and support mechanisms where appropriate, customizing communication and training for diverse stakeholder groups, and continually evaluating institutional structures to ensure robust support for data management.
The document acknowledges the varied organizational cultures, structures, and levels of centralization across institutions, and encourages tailored approaches that reflect these differences. It highlights the importance of inventorying expertise, developing clear guidance, and implementing shared services where beneficial. Special consideration is given to the complexities posed by disparate NIH Institute and Center policies, as well as to the need for coordination amid fluctuating proposal submission volumes. The challenges of workforce development, change management, compliance monitoring, and sustaining institutional engagement are addressed, with practical suggestions for leveraging existing resources and learning from experienced units. The document advocates staying connected with the Council on Governmental Relations (COGR) for ongoing updates and support, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing across institutions as they adapt to new data management and sharing requirements.
