Handling research data containing personal information involves a number of challenges for researchers. Complex regulations, lack of clear practice, and absence of practical solutions not only create an administrative burden on research, but also means that many hesitate to make their data available, out of fear of making mistakes.
To facilitate this, SND has launched new resources on Researchdata.se under the collection page Data containing personal information. The new resources support researchers who work with personal data in their research. They include an updated version of the earlier handbook for data containing personal information on snd.se, as well as entirely new content in the form of practical guidance and examples based on SND’s experience in assisting researchers with everyday issues concerning personal data.
Based on real examples
– The content is based on SND’s practical work in helping researchers manage personal data in research. There is a lot written about laws and regulations regarding personal data, but few resources on how one can actually proceed in practice. Our hope is that the new resources will serve as a first entry point where it is easy to find answers and practical solutions, says research data advisor Joel Carlsten Rosberg, who have led the effort to create practically oriented resources.
The resources include:
- Handbook for data with personal information: an updated version of the earlier handbook on snd.se, with four parts — legal aspects, methods, tools and resources
- Guidance and examples: practical examples and scenarios based on SND’s experience supporting researchers in working with personal data
- Frequently asked questions and common misconceptions: highlights recurring questions and common misconceptions about handling personal data
- Glossary: explanations of central concepts related to research data and personal information.
Supporting safer practices
– After the launch of Researchdata.se, more resources on how to handle personal data were requested. Our hope is that these new resources will make it easier for researchers who work with personal data, and that it will give them greater confidence in making their data visible and shareable, says Sara Svensson, Head of Research Data Services at SND.
The new resources will be continuously updated as practices, regulations, and tools evolve. In this way, they will remain a relevant and up-to-date support for researchers. The page is freely accessible via Researchdata.se.