The NIH has introduced a shorter, more streamlined format for Data Management and Sharing (DMS) Plans (NOT-OD-26-046). The updated format is intended to reduce administrative burden, clarify expectations, improve consistency, and make plans easier for the NIH to review and monitor.
While the format is changing, the purpose of the DMS Plan remains the same and researchers are still expected to outline how scientific data will be generated, managed, preserved, and shared.
The new format will be required for all applications with due dates on or after May 25, 2026.
What’s changing
- The NIH will replace the current two-page narrative with a standardized format that:
- Primarily uses “yes/no” responses
- Includes a structured table describing data types and repositories
- Incorporates a brief narrative field for additional detail
What remains the same
- The core expectations under the NIH Data Management and Sharing Policy are unchanged
- Researchers must continue to maximize appropriate data sharing
- Data should be shared as soon as possible, and no later than the time of publication or the end of the award period, whichever comes first
- Data should align with the FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) and be saved in established repositories when available
- Allowable data management and sharing costs may still be included in grant budgets
You can find the new webform and instructions here.
For questions, please contact Heather Skinner, Director of Compliance & Research Integrity (Heather_Skinner@med.unc.edu).