It does not include honest error or honest differences in interpretations or judgments of data. The existence and embodiment of data are often the defining evidence when making judgments on the propriety and soundness of research actions. Publishing expectations on data retention and timely delivery of such data to a deliberation body allows for the consideration of basic questions of responsibility without the onus of an ongoing investigation. In this way, if a claim of research misconduct does occur, a common ground exists on which to make judgments.
Research data takes on many forms.
It is information used as a basis for reasoning, discussion or calculations. The most common image is registry of observations in a notebook in a prescribed format. For purposes outlined in this guideline, data is defined in the broadest context as the registry of observations, measurements, and embodiment of creative works. This registry may be in the form of pencil on paper, memory on computer hard disk or other media or initial sketches or drafts of creative works. Data includes preliminary original source materials and working drafts that are defining of the final work or data set that is published.