Electronic Research Proposals and Awards Environment Project

Communications update 2 (October 2015):

What is the project about?

In August we issued the first short communication about the new Electronic Research Proposals and Awards Environment project which is being delivered by RIS over the next year and which will result in significant improvements to the way in which research proposals are developed, costed and submitted and by which research awards are managed .

What we will be introducing is a fully integrated electronic environment with an intuitive and adaptable user interface that supports an improved research proposal and award management process including a new costing tool to replace pFACT.

Who will it effect?

All research active academics, research support services and other professional services involved in administering or approving research applications and awards

Why are we changing things?

There are a number of underpinning reasons for the change but the key ones are:

  • There is a pressing need to replace pFACT our existing costing tool, which is becoming obsolete
  • Our current application and award processes have remained unchanged for many years and need to be reviewed to accommodate the steady growth of our research base
  • A more efficient process will enable us to enhance our pre-award support and further improve the quality and value of services provided by reducing time spent on paperwork.
  • Enhanced integration between RIS and other professional services will reduce current barriers to setting up projects.

What has happened so far?

Over the last year we have worked extensively with a broad range of stakeholders including representatives from academic departments, professional services and RIS to identify and procure a preferred system solution that adequately meet the needs of our users.

What happens next?

The next phase of the project, which is just starting, involves the configuration, testing and implementation of the new system and this will take place in two

Phases,

Phase 1: Configuration, testing and roll out of new costing tool with electronic approvals. October 2015 – June 2016.
This phase is already underway. RIS staff and other professional services ae providing input in to the configuration of the new costing tool. This will be piloted with two departments between March – June 2016 before being rolled out to the whole university.

Phase 2: Configuration, testing and roll out of full proposal to award management system. February 2016 – November 2016

Both phases will be supported by an extensive programme of user training and support.

We are convinced that the benefits to be realised by the new system are considerable and align closely with our Institutional objectives to expand our research portfolio. However to get it right constructive input, and support from all stakeholder groups will be critical. We are keen to hear you views and to initiate an open dialogue with our user community. We looking also looking for volunteers who would be willing to take part in workshops and testing exercises.

We will continue to provide regular updates on theproject to keep you informed of progress and encourage your input. We would also be willing to come along to talk to your department about the project in more detail. If you would like us to do this or if you have any questions please do get in touch with us.

Alison Evans: extn 3350

Chris Cooper: extn 6363