What is raw data?

[nautonnier]

From a research center's point of view the 'raw data' is the data that was received in the format it was received (usually digital) and stored without any manipulation. Then there is original 'meta data' explaining what the stored data is, its origins, its format/keys etc and any notes of interest that may affect its usage.

An archive keeper is then charged with ensuring full backups of that data and maintaining the digital copies on current storage devices ideally optical to avoid degradation. Even if the copies are moved to up-to-date technology, keep the old if possible.

Original data is what research runs on - never ever lose it or discard it.

[trbixler]

The electronic data and the programs are part of the archive. As the programs are updated, and they will be, the archive for the programs must be version controlled. Who made the change, why they made the change and when they made the change. The version control must be able to recover any version in the archive. Typically allows for a compare of version to version. Typically the file is checked out to one individual at a time. Typically there is a hierarchical permission to who can modify the file. This is a rigorous procedure that is always followed. The programs are the window to the data, both are vitally important.