NIH Guidance for Writing a DMS Plan

This page describes what NIH expects DMS Plans to address.

This page is the official notice on elements to use in the new DMS Plan.

DMS Plan Elements & Outline

DMS Plans should include the following recommended elements and should be two pages or less in length. Additional details about each of these elements are provided here.

• Data Type: Provide a brief description of the types and estimated amount of scientific data to be generated and/or used in the research. Indicate which scientific data from the project will be preserved and shared and identify any metadata, other data or documentation that will be provided to facilitate interpretation of the scientific data.
   
• Related Tools, Software and/or Code: Identify and locate any specialized tools needed to access or manipulate the shared scientific data to support replication or reuse.
   
• Standards: Describe any standards that will be applied to the scientific data and associated metadata.
   
• Data Preservation, Access & Associated Timelines: Describe the plans and timelines for data preservation and access, including the name(s) of data repository(ies) and how and when the data can be accessed. Data Storage Format.
   
• Access, Distribution & Reuse Considerations: Describe any considerations that may limit the extent of scientific data access, distribution, or reuse (e.g., informed consent; privacy and confidentiality protections; restrictions due to federal, state or tribal laws and regulations).
   
• Oversight of Data Management & Sharing: Indicate how compliance with the DMSP will be monitored and managed.

Writing the Plan

• For preparation of the DMS Plan, the NIH has provided example text and additional guidance for the requisite elements listed above. Download this document here.
   
• You also may prepare the DMS Plan using DMPTool, a free, open-source, online application that helps researchers create data management plans.  Log in with SSO (LSU Health email and password). Click here for detailed access and use instructions. 

• Tips
  • If your research requires IRB approval, the LSUHSC IRB may ask for information contained in your DMS Plan. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to draft your DMS Plan prior to seeking IRB approval .