Better Data Management in 5 Practices

Why future-proof?

Have you seen this warning windows before? A file that opens now may not open later when you or other researchers needed. Take measures proactively to make backups when this happens.

How to future proof?

Get help for your specific cases with us, but for a starting point, here are some items to consider.

• Retain installer file for the software package in case it becomes unsupported or unavailable
• Export or duplicate proprietary files into open formats (e.g. Excel → csv, psd → svg, more references on this page on stable file formats.) 
• Save a Docker image or container for a complicated software environment
• Avoid file formats more prone to corruption
• Choose lossless over lossy compression
• Use vector over raster graphics (e.g. use .pdf instead of .png for diagrams and plots)
• Others_________________________

Not sure about some of these terms? Let me know.