The Research Data Life Cycle and the Probability of Secondary Use for Re-analysis

Amy Pienta, University of Michigan
James W. McNally, University of Michigan

The life course of a funded research project represents an important, yet largely understudied phenomenon. Like any demographic event, a research project follows a measurable trajectory; passing through a series of transitional phases leading to completion. This poster will present analysis on the outcomes that primary data collected through funded research can follow. Specifically, we analyze the likelihood that primary research data will be released for secondary analysis and identify factors that increase the risk that data will remain unavailable for re-analysis. We will present specific solutions to common barriers faced that inhibit the transition from primary to secondary data. The benefits of secondary data analysis are undeniable, with a better understanding of what incentives encourage the release of research data into the public domain we can better assist researchers in developing strategies that allow them to add their data to the growing collection of secondary data resources.