UBC offers active data storage options for a variety of use cases, supporting individuals and teams, appropriate for data in a variety of formats and sizes.
UBC researchers are encouraged to use the data storage solution most appropriate to the risk level of their data, and which supports compliance with UBC policies and standards. As part of this, one must also consider what is stipulated in any relevant data sharing agreements they may have, data licenses for already collected data, or other agreements when working with entities external to UBC.
Data storage options may include institutionally supported software through UBC IT or UBC ARC, or other commercially available solutions deemed sufficient for protecting the research data.
SharePoint
SharePoint is UBC’s cloud-based storage option. It provides two user interfaces for file and data management, OneDrive, for personal files, and Teams, for group access to files.
Network Storage
UBC Vancouver and UBC Okanagan provide on-premise networked storage for research data. Network storage may be a better option than SharePoint when cloud syncing interferes with data analysis tasks or when data is being worked with primarily on campus.
Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) Grants
CFI expects advanced research computing (ARC) infrastructure to be integrated into the national ARC platform, through processes facilitated by the Digital Research Alliance of Canada.
If you are seeking or have funds to set up your own storage solutions, book a consultation to help identify, source, and configure your set up.
Large Data Storage
Visit this site’s section on High Performance Computing if your storage requirements exceed what is available on SharePoint or through UBC’s network storage solutions.
Support
| Service Area | Unit | Contact | Resource |
|---|---|---|
| SharePoint Technical Issues | UBC IT | Submit a Ticket |
| Network Storage Set up and Technical Issues | Vancouver UBC IT Okanagan Research Computing | |
| Storage Compliance Support and Use | Advanced Research Computing | Request a Consultation |
| CFI | Vancouver Advanced Research Computing Okanagan Research Computing |
Resources
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Using Microsoft OneDrive and Teams for Research | A guide from ARC to appropriate use of OneDrive, Teams, and SharePoint for research. |
| UBC Research Storage Finder | A step by step guide from ARC to help you identify suitable storage for research data. |