Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some frequently asked questions related to the RDMC user manual, along with their answers.
General Questions
1. What is RDMC?
RDMC stands for Research Data Management Container. It is a platform designed to facilitate the storage, management, and sharing of research data while ensuring compliance with data protection regulations.
2. What are the key features of RDMC?
Secure data storage and sharing.
Configurable access levels for managing user permissions.
Support for resource uploads, including files, folders, and links.
Integration of context, security, and containerization information for research data.
YAML-based questionnaire uploads and validation for manifest data management.
Manifest configuration for defining metadata and schema versions.
3. Who can use RDMC?
RDMC is intended for researchers, administrators, and data managers who need a secure and compliant platform for managing research data and metadata.
4. Who is the Owner?
The Owner is the individual or institution that creates the RDMC. Each RDMC has a single designated Owner who has full control over the platform. The Owner can add users, assign permissions, and manage access rights. Additionally, only the Owner has the exclusive authority to seal the container, ensuring data integrity and finalization.
5. What is e Reusable Execution Environment (REE)?
The Reusable Execution Environment (REE) is a separate, replicable context defined by the Research Data Management Container (RDMC) within the NFDIxCS initiative. It enables software in the RDMC to run by recreating the original environment at the time of sealing, without risking changes to the preserved research artifacts. The REE can be archived independently and reused whenever the RDMC needs to be executed.
6. What are the access levels?
In RDMC, there are three types of access levels that determine user permissions and capabilities:
1. Fully Access Users with fully access have complete control over the RDMC platform. They can create, edit, and manage all aspects of the system.
2. Restricted Access Users with restricted access have limited permissions. They can view and modify certain elements but cannot perform administrative actions.
3. Partial Access Users with partial access have minimal permissions. They can view content but cannot make modifications.
7. Can I change my access levels?
Currently No. If user wants to change the access level then they delete the artifact first and then recreate it.
8. Can I explore my RDMC?
Yes. You can explore your container’s metadata and structure at any time. Simply click on the specific RDMC in your Dashboard to view its complete content. Please note that while exploring, you can review everything, but you cannot edit or modify any data.
9. How can I resume or continue an existing RDMC?
There are two ways to pick up where you left off with an existing RDMC:
Via Dashboard: Go directly to your Personal Dashboard and click the Continue button next to the specific RDMC you want to resume.
Via ZIP Upload: Upload a previously exported RDMC ZIP file into the system to import and continue working on it.
Resources Upload
10. How do I upload resources to RDMC?
User have to create a container first and then go to the Upload section. There are a form to upload the resources.
11. Can I modify my uploaded resources to RDMC?
Yes. User can modify (title, access level) or even delete the uploaded resources in RDMC before sealing.
12. If anyone want to upload the same object again then when will be happen?
If a object (file or folder) is already uploaded in the same Artifact, the RDMC platform displays an error message. But if the object is uploaded in different container or artifact then it will be accepted.
13. What will happen if a Link is invalid or already insert or a private repository link?
If the link is found to be invalid or has already been uploaded or private repository, the RDMC platform displays an error message,
14. Can I check if my RDMC folder contains all required files and directories?
Yes. The platform automatically checks your container folder to ensure it contains all the essential files and directories needed for a proper RDMC.
The main file categories that are checked include:
README
LICENSE
CHANGELOG
CONTRIBUTING
Dockerfile
CI/CD configuration files
Library or package files
The system also checks for important directories such as:
Version control directories (e.g., .git)
Test directories
Documentation directories
If any required files or folders are missing, the platform will notify you so you can add them before sealing your container. This ensures your RDMC is complete, well-structured, and ready for sharing or publication.
15. What happens if my folder is missing some files?
The platform will alert you about missing files or directories. Users can add the missing files to the folder, then re-run the validation check. This ensures your RDMC container meets the minimum requirements before it can be sealed and published.
Questionnaire and Manifest Data
16. Do I have to answer every single field in the Artifact Details form?
No. When filling out the Artifact Details, not all configuration questions are mandatory. Only the questions marked with an asterisk (*) are required to proceed; all other fields are optional.
17. How can I add other contributors to my RDMC container?
You can easily associate other contributors with your workflow by navigating to the Container Metadata page. From there, you can add new project contributors directly by entering their unique ORCID iD.
18. Can I change my manifest information?
Yes. User can changes the resources either add or delete them. And if user wants to change questionnaire then go to the Manifest Create section and edit the information and click submit again to save the information.
19. Can I see or download the manifest file?
Yes. User can access the manifest file from two locations. You can go to the Seal and Sign page, open the dropdown menu under the Manifest File section to view or download it, or you can download it directly from your Dashboard.
Sealing Container
21. Can I change my RDMC or information after sealing the container?
No. It is not possible to change any thing after sealing the container.
22. Can I download the complete RDMC?
Yes. You can download the full RDMC container as a package, but this action is only possible after you have sealed the RDMC. Once the container is officially sealed, the download option becomes available.
Getting Help
23. How can I contact the support team?
If you encounter issues or have questions, please contact the RDMC support team at nfdixcs-a1@lists.gi.de or Helpdesk.