Deadly Data Management - the dos and don’ts
The Geographic Information System (GIS) industry relies on accurate and up to date geospatial data - so it’s important to know how to source, store and use these data correctly. Whether it is self-generated or acquired from alternative sources, there are best practices and guidelines to follow to ensure you are getting the most out of your data.
With this in mind, the IMW Australia - On Demand is pleased to introduce a brand new addition to the IMW course material - Deadly Data.
The course will teach best practice when it comes to managing GIS data, and in the lead up to the IMW Australia - On Demand launch, we want to share our top tips on data management with you.
What you should do when it comes to data management
Stay organised!
Good data management and organisation ensures you can complete tasks both efficiently and in a timely manner. When it comes to mapping data, there are many different layers of information that need to be accessed at the same time. If this information is not saved in an orderly way or it’s difficult to access, both the initial planning and the deeper work involved in your project is going to take a lot longer than necessary to complete.
Keep up-to-date with changes
Out-of-date or inaccurate data not only causes a hindrance, it carries the risk of devaluing your mapping project. The Native Title and Heritage sectors are a good example of an industry that frequently experiences changes and updates to data sets. Ensure you remain relevant and up-to-date by checking data updates and practicing good organisation so these changes can be tracked and implemented efficiently.
Ensure the data you acquire is fit for purpose
Gathering data from other sources involves a process of cleaning and making it fit for purpose and appropriate for your project. Organisations derive value from data when it is analysed for your project’s intent and when it is manipulated beyond its original intent. There is no need to get bogged down sourcing and cleaning data that doesn’t add value to your project. Focus only on what you need.
What you should avoid when it comes to data management
Keeping your data in one place
It is imperative that you backup your data regularly and adhere to the processes outlined by your organisation. Storing data in one place leaves you vulnerable to breakdowns and too reliant on simply one form of storage. Ensuring your data is backed up in more than one place shows that you are prepared and organised - it also gives you peace of mind if your initial storage system fails.
Store your data with only the short-term in mind
It is important to store your data with the intention of making it easier for future use. As mentioned above, ensuring the data that you acquire is fit for purpose is important, but ensuring that you have strategies in place to use this data in the long term is just as valuable. To make the most out of your data acquisition, be sure to document your data cleaning process and identify any false data. This ensures that the data is ‘future-proofed’ for your organisation.
Are you an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person working with maps and want to know more about data management?
Learn more about best practice and how to effectively manage your data through the course ‘Deadly Data at the IMW Australia - On Demand!