The data generated by research work, as well as the documents and other artefacts that represent that work, must be preserved in a way that ensures their accessibility and usability now and in the future. These digital objects may include, but are not limited to, text, images, audio and video.

The preservation of digital data is a key aspect of any research project. In addition, in recent years it has become almost a necessity for institutions and researchers to manage and preserve their research data, often legally obliged to do so many years after project funding has ended.

Therefore, when planning any new research project, the first priority should be to develop an appropriate strategy to preserve research data. Without best practices in place, scientific records and documentary heritage created in digital form will continue to be threatened by the obsolescence of digital records, as well as the fragility inherent in digital media. A carefully planned strategy for the preservation and management of digital collections ensures that digital objects will be more discoverable and accessible to researchers.