Machine-actionable DMP workshop: defining requirements and priorities in the South African context

Data Management Plans (DMPs) are becoming commonplace across the globe, but opportunities are being missed to make the best use of the data and truly support researchers’ practices. The current manifestation of a DMP—a static pdf/doc/txt file created before a project even begins—only contributes to the perception that they are an annoying administrative exercise. What they really are is an integral part of research practice since today most research (across all disciplines) involves data, code, and other digital components. So can we reimagine DMPs in this context? This workshop addressed ideas for making DMPs machine-actionable and integrating them with other tools and services to embed the DMP in existing research workflows. Brainstorming and discussion sessions will give participants an opportunity to define and prioritise use cases that connect the DMP to support services and make the best use of the data. These ideas will help to shape the future functionality of Data Management Planning tools and services.