Enhancing data governance in collaborative research: Introducing SA DTA 1.1.

Abstract

Background: The SA DTA was updated to better serve the South African research community by providing clarity on exactly when - at what stage during research - institutions hold rights to the data they generate in collaborative research contexts where raw data are received and integrated with other data. SA DTA 1.1 introduces significant enhancements in data governance, focusing on the explicit definition and management of 'inferential data'.

Objectives: To introduce SA DTA 1.1 and demonstrate its practical application in real-world research contexts.

Methods: Using a descriptive design, the study presents two practical case studies: one involving two universities and another a university and a pharmaceutical company. The first case focuses on identifying genetic markers for neurodegenerative diseases, while the second addresses genetic markers for chronic diseases.

Results: In the first case study, the entity conducting the analysis generated inferential data independently, thereby gaining sole rights in such data. In the second case study, both collaborating entities contributed to the data analysis, leading to joint rights in the inferential data. These findings demonstrate the flexibility and clarity provided by SA DTA 1.1 in managing data ownership and intellectual property rights.

Conclusion: SA DTA 1.1 significantly advances data governance by providing clear and adaptable guidelines for data rights in collaborative research. It supports ethical and efficient data sharing, protecting researchers' interests and fostering global scientific innovation.