The primary data management task during the research process is to store data safely with regular backups. Storing data solely on a local hard disk, laptop, or USB stick is not recommended as storage media may deteriorate, could be lost, stolen, damaged, or destroyed. Backups should be performed regularly. Automatic backups get the preference over manual ones, which can be forgotten. One should verify that backups are working and that access to these files is guaranteed.
Many MPDL services are available to Max Planck researchers and – upon invitation – their external collaborators. Additional (more discipline-specific) ones may exist at individual institutes.
