Ensuring that others can discover the data easily. Researchers should ensure that others are able to easily discover their data. They can do this by adding good quality metadata which accurately describes the data, preferably one that is part of an internationally recognised schema. They should also attach a persistent identifier to the data such as a DOI which enables it to be easily located and referenced.

Making the data accessible is a vital part of enabling its use. Researchers should aim to use open source rather than proprietary metadata and software to release their data. Although using well known programmes such as Microsoft or Apple might be easier for the original researcher, others without access to these programmes will not be able to use the data. Another key part of accessibility is making the attached metadata available even when the data itself cannot be readily obtained. At the very least this can raise awareness of the data for those who might need to access it. Finally, researchers should carefully consider the venue for sharing their data and deposit it in a recognised repository.

When making their data FAIR, researchers should consider if they can be used across different systems by different people. Part of this involves using non-proprietary software but they should also be able to integrate with other systems and information in order to gain insights. Using common formats and standards when storing and sharing data will help with this.

The final step for researchers is to ensure that their data can be reused by others who may need it for their own work. Following the principles of findability, accessibility and interoperability will help with this but they should also make sure that they provide appropriate provenance information and attach a specific licence to the data such as Creative Commons. This helps others to understand not only where the data has come from but also how they are permitted to use it in their own research.