The Research Data Management (RDM) service at the library introduces researchers at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) to the value of archiving and distributing research data. Once research data is collected, organised, analysed and shared through publication, the development of new research is encouraged and the research cycle continues.

Researchers are trained to construct Data Management Plans (DMPs) and provided with continuing support as their research develops. During training, researchers are introduced to the F.A.I.R. principles of research data. These principles help to make research data easier to locate, understand, share, use or reuse on different platforms. Researchers are assisted with data curation as their data is saved securely and eventually published and shared online. The RDM support service includes administration of the Kikapu.