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What must I consider when feeding data into a repository?

• Format

First of all, it is important that the data is available in a suitable format. Some repositories have stricter specifications here, others merely make recommendations or are open to all formats. This makes it all the more important to think about this in advance of the research. (How do I create a data management plan?) For general advice and specific links on formats, see: Which file formats should be used? 

• Metadata

In order for data to be found and used well, it must be documented precisely by metadata. Please have a look at the detailed notes at: What are metadata, metadata schemas, controlled vocabularies and documentation?

• Publication

An upload to a repository does not automatically mean immediate publication. Under certain circumstances, there may be reasons for an embargo period or partial publication. Especially in business-related research disciplines, embargoes on research results are common. Therefore, consider whether there are important reasons against immediate publication. (Does anything speak against publication?)

• Conditions

Also consider the conditions under which you want to publish your data. There are various licence models for this (Which licence should I choose?).