Frequently Asked Questions
Who are we?
We are the NORC Data Enclave and we provide a wide range of data services throughout the entire data life cycle—from data collection to data dissemination. Our services include:
- Secure remote access platform
- Cutting edge data analysis
- Customized data management solutions
- State-of-the-art metadata services
- Strategic data dissemination services
What is the NORC Data Enclave?
The NORC Data Enclave provides authorized researchers with secure remote access to confidential microdata files via an encrypted connection. The NORC Data Enclave provides our partner organizations a secure platform where they can both host and build a research community around their data.
Who uses the NORC Data Enclave?
Researchers range from university faculty members, graduate students, to Federal employees. Any interested researchers may click here to learn more about application procedures.
How do I get help when I have a problem?
Contact us! Our professional NORC Data Enclave management team is always available to assist you. Please email dataenclavemanager@norc.org when you need help.
How do I import/export files from/to the enclave?
Both importing and exporting go through a rigorous disclosure review process to ensure confidentiality. Go to the disclosure control page to learn more about the procedures to import and export files in and out of the Enclave.
My contract will expire in a month. What should I do?
Please email us at dataenclavemanager@norc.org to extend your contract.
What software applications are available in the NORC Data Enclave?
We offer a wide range of software applications in the Enclave to support your research. Some of the applications include SAS, Stata, SPSS, R, Matlab, MS Office Suite, Adobe Acrobat, Notepad ++, LIMDEP, NLOGIT, SUDAAN, and more. Contact us for a full list of applications we provide.
I need to install a new program. What should I do?
Any software changes must be reviewed by our IT department. If there’s a program you would like to use in the Enclave, in addition to what’s available, contact us for assistance.
Does the NORC Data Enclave have any other datasets to compliment what I have been working on?
We are currently building a repertoire of contextual data according to your needs. These are available in the public data folder in the Enclave. If you would like anything to be added to our collection, please contact us.
How do I access datasets provided by other data producers?
This would require approval from the specific data producers. Contact us to learn how we can accommodate your research needs.
How can I collaborate with other researchers in the NORC Data Enclave?
The NORC Data Enclave provides numerous tools to encourage and facilitate collaboration. Some of them include portal, wiki, discussion forum, shared library, and instant messaging capabilities. Please visit our collaborative interface page for more details.
I have an announcement to share with other researchers. How can I do that?
You may utilize the numerous collaborative features offered in the NORC Data Enclave, including the announcement feature on our portal site in the Enclave. Please visit our collaborative interface page for more details.
Where can I find training materials?
Training slides and other materials are available upon request. Please contact your Data Enclave Managers for details.
How can I apply for access?
Please visit the data catalog page and fill out the online application form. We will get back to you as soon as we receive your request.
I am currently a student. Can I apply for access?
Data providers have different access policies. Please get in touch with us so that we can advise you further on this matter.
What datasets do you have?
Our data provider and researcher page lists all available datasets that we currently house. You can also access the individual web pages for each of the datasets through the data provider and researcher page.
Are scholarships available for the Data Enclave?
Some data providers offer scholarship programs to select researchers. Please click here to go to the scholarship announcement page.
What have other Enclave researchers published?
A full list of publications of Enclave researchers is provided in the publications web page.
What kind of security features does the NORC Data Enclave employ?
We are one of the very few FIPS compliant remote access data enclave. To learn more about our security features click here.
How do I deposit data?
Please contact our project director, Tim Mulcahy, at mulcahy-tim@norc.org
What additional services do you provide besides storing my data?
Other services we provide are cutting edge data analysis, customized data management solutions, state-of-the-art metadata services, and strategic data dissemination services.