The SDS platform is ideal as a place to store research data for ongoing projects. If you want to collaborate, publish your research, or store it for long-term access and impact, you can host your data collection on the SDS platform.
An initial consultation usually takes place between a researcher (and their team) and the SDS service to help us understand the research project and your data management goals. Together, we can explore how the SDS platform can host your data collection.
Once the research project team is ready to go, the SDS service team can help to provide initial set-up on the SDS platform. This typically includes:
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creating your “collection” on the SDS platform
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defining your project structure
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defining your custom metadata and file tagging process
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training your team in how to use the service to upload your information
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assistance with bulk migration of data
On average, a research project will typically need between 2-5 days for set-up on the SDS platform and for any initial troubleshooting, support and tweaks. The number of days of support required will be determined by the complexity of both your research data and the structure required on our platform. Projects that require a significant amount of data preparation will need additional support, so it's important that we have as much information from the project team on the size and configuration of the project data as possible before issuing a quote.
At what stage should I contact SDS?
Please get in touch with us before submitting your grant application so we can assess your requirements. Being involved at an early stage ensures we can shape our support to fit within your budget. The SDS service can be costed in x5 for inclusion in grant applications. Full details of how to do this are included on the quote document you’ll receive when costing SDS into your application.
SDS service day rates
2024/25 - £736.27
2025/26 - £772.78
What happens after my project migration is completed?
Once your data have been migrated onto the platform, you'll receive continued support from the SDS service team on a helpdesk basis for no additional charge. If any future batch migrations or significant additional support are required, we will be happy to discuss your needs and provide a new quote. We'll work closely with you and your team to keep you up to date with progress, and to answer any questions you may have along the way.
What if my project is unfunded?
We're happy to discuss projects that do not currently have funding. We can offer advice on potential funding options where appropriate, or depending on your project requirements direct you to alternative services or other areas of the University for support and advice.
