Supporting researcher compliance: assessing institutional readiness for the 2023 NIH Data Management and Sharing Policy.

OBJECTIVE

To assess researchers' understanding, readiness, and perceived challenges related to the 2023 NIH Data Management and Sharing (DMS) Policy and identify institutional support needs to facilitate compliance.

METHODS

A mixed-method study was conducted using a 15-item survey distributed to 155 researchers at an academic medical center, with 55 responses (35% response rate). The survey evaluated familiarity with the DMS policy, confidence in performing data management and sharing tasks, perceived burden, and desired institutional support. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, and open-ended responses underwent inductive thematic analysis to identify key themes.

RESULTS

Most respondents (67%) understood the DMS policy, yet fewer (47%) felt comfortable developing a DMS Plan. Only 29% had used DMPTool.org, while 87% requested tailored templates. Confidence in identifying appropriate repositories (40%) and budgeting for DMS activities (38%) was limited, with 68% perceiving plan execution as burdensome. Qualitative findings revealed two major themes: (1) Operational and Infrastructure Needs; emphasizing the need for centralized consultation, discipline-specific templates, equitable access to expertise, and budget guidance; and (2) Implementation Challenges and Perceived Burden; including perceptions of administrative overload, uncertainty in managing sensitive data, and calls for clearer institutional communication and cultural reframing of data sharing as a value-added activity.

CONCLUSIONS

While researchers endorse the principles of the NIH DMS policy, many lack the practical resources and institutional support necessary for effective compliance. Developing centralized infrastructure, standardized guidance, and targeted training may reduce burdens, promote equity, and strengthen a culture of responsible data stewardship. While researchers endorse the principles of the NIH DMS policy, many lack the practical resources and institutional support necessary for effective compliance. Developing centralized infrastructure, standardized guidance, and targeted training may reduce burdens, promote equity, and strengthen a culture of responsible data stewardship.