When working with data, the data life cycle is a useful framework to determine what stage you are in using data and what steps you may need to take next. It is important to remember that your process may not be linear; you may skip some steps and circle back to others multiple times.
Additionally, ensuring that you use data ethically and in compliance with any regulations it may be subject to is something to keep in mind at every stage.
There are eight steps in the data life cycle:
