While it is often tempting to jump right into collecting data, planning how you will manage the data in the short- and long-terms is just as important as spending time designing the study approach before beginning data collection. Oftentimes, research data management can be frustrating because it gets left to the last minute when a manuscript gets accepted or a grant is being finished up, forcing researchers to rush, alter plans, and resolve disagreements or uncertainties with collaborators, other researchers, or funding agency program officers. It doesn't need to be this way! Developing a data management plan, whether you're required to by a funder or not, is a great way to design a roadmap for how you will manage your data and can save you time and stress as the project nears completion.
