Costing Research Data Management: A Framework

Version 2 published August 2025 based on the first round of stakeholder consultation.

This publication presents a draft working model for integrating the costs of Research Data Management (RDM) into research funding proposals, now open for stakeholder consultation. The model has been developed in response to widespread concerns that critical RDM tasks are frequently overlooked or insufficiently accounted for during proposal preparation. As a result, these tasks are often either omitted from project workflows or subsidised informally by host institutions—practices that can compromise research outputs and limit data sharing. 

Our aim is to provide a scalable and adaptable resourcing model that applies across disciplines, clearly identifying essential RDM tasks along with the associated time and resource requirements. By encouraging deliberate and proactive planning, the model supports improved project design and delivery. It also serves as a tool to help determine when embedded data stewardship services or team training may be necessary to ensure effective data management throughout the research lifecycle. 

We welcome feedback on this draft model.

Please provide feedback here.