Data management plan: Good housekeeping or a bureaucratic exercise? : Data management in digital humanities projects at Uppsala University

Sammanfattning: Introduction. Research data management is a topic of ongoing discussion, particularly in academic institutions, where researchers strive to effectively handle diverse types of data. This study examines the practices of research data management in selected digital humanities projects at Uppsala University. The objective is to as- sess the impact that data management plans (DMPs) on these interdisciplinary projects and evaluate the applica- tion of the FAIR guiding principles. It is crucial to consider the researchers’ perspective on this matter. Universi- ties could invest in robust data management practices by taking into account the needs and skills of researchers. Method. Semi-structured interviews were conducted using purposive sampling targeting researchers from various departments within the Faculty of Arts who were involved in interdisciplinary digital humanities pro- jects. Eight interviews were carried out with principal investigators (PIs) and researchers. Analysis. The interviews, along with the provided DMPs, were thematically analysed to address the re- search questions regarding the effect of DMPs in the selected projects. Results. The study findings indicate that the PIs and researchers do not perceive the DMP as an integral part of their research work in digital humanities projects. Nonetheless, most participants recognise its signifi- cance and its role could be enhanced in research projects. Challenges typically arise during stages of the research data life cycle, such as data analysis, rather than in the development of the DMP itself. Moreover, the practical implementation of the FAIR principles often poses difficulties due to variations in data types and project goals. Conclusion. The results of this study highlight the need for more actionable DMPs in digital humanities projects and further training for researchers on data management issues. The interdisciplinary nature of these projects facilitates collaboration among researchers in the development of DMPs.