Wouldn’t it be wonderful to start 2020 by having all folders in order and finding data files in seconds? University of Helsinki Data Support challenges all UH researchers to participate in Data Cleaning Week during 16th to 20th of December.
During the week researchers are urged to go through their data files and storages:
- Clean up directories and folders.
- Name files wisely.
- Destroy unnecessary data.
It is not uncommon that when years go by and when new research projects get started data folders get messier without good data management strategy. Time is limited too, as we know. However, it is never too late to start over and get everything organized and your future self will thank you.
Your future self will thank you.
Now the question remains how to get started. We have gathered guidance based on a 5S method, which is a lean tool for organization and improving efficiency. The 5S stands for:
- Sort
- Set in order
- Shine
- Standardize
- Sustain
The idea is that you start by sorting your files: check all folders and remove files that are not necessary. After that set remaining files in order; make the structure and naming conventions that suit your needs. Third and fourth is about shining and standardizing: develop a method that will support the new practices and make it part of the daily routine. Last, but not least, sustain your new system, and teach it to your group and colleagues so that good practices spread.
Participate in Data Cleaning Week!
Data Support has now challenged you to clean up your files! Participate the challenge by posting a picture of your cleaning effort to Twitter by using the hashtag #5sdata. The picture can be about folder structure, new file naming system for your group, space created by cleaning – you name it! Remember to challenge your colleagues too!
You can also participate in Data Cleaning Week by sending an email to Data Support: datasupport@helsinki.fi. We convey your message through the Think Open blog and Twitter.