Citations FAQ

Where should data be cited?

In the reference list with other scholarly publications

What will you do if the dataset already has a DOI from another data center? Will you assign a new DOI or refer to the existing DOI?

The RDA will assign a new DOI because data centers may serve data in different ways (i.e. subsets, weekly means, or derived products). 

What happens if we update our data?

• Routine dataset extension in time
  • Add new files
  • Inherit existing DOI
  • Regularly update temporal coverage in DataCite metadata

How does DOI assignment work? Does the datacenter create the DOI?

DOI Registration Process

A DOI is an unchanging pointer to a dataset or to a paper, however what if a dataset evolves?

RDA DOI Use Cases

What is the status of tracking the data citation?

Tracking data citations is a current topic of discussion. We will inform the user when a method has been decided upon.

How do I cite in the body of a text if there is no author?

Cite the institution where the dataset was produced.

I want to use a DOI to cite my dataset – how do I get one assigned?

Contact the data specialist assigned to your RDA dataset to start the process.