Improving Data Management Practices of Researchers by Using a Behavioural Framework

Given the value of research data at the local, national and international levels, considerable attention is being focused on its management, discovery and re-use. This paper examines the current data management practices among researchers and the barriers—both perceived and real—for them to reassess those practices and, where appropriate, adopt new ones. The authors have drawn upon key insights from the major models and theories of behaviour and behaviour change to develop a proposed framework for understanding researcher behaviour. The paper discusses how this framework assists service delivery teams to look at issues from the individual researcher perspective and, as a result, develop a more effective planned intervention to change behaviours where necessary. The authors conclude with suggestions as to the potential wider applicability of the behavioural framework within an organisation.