A study was undertaken to gather precise data regarding the expenses incurred in the preparation of proposals submitted within a specified time period by an academic unit within an institution of higher education and to compare those costs to the success (funding) of the proposals. The results indicate a return to the institution of over ten times…

Office automation technology is being used to process proposals at Clemson University. The Electronic Proposal Submittal project is a process by which the Principal Investigator can create a proposal at his or her local station and electronically submit it for processing. (Author/MLW)

Ways in which the beginning research administrator can assist faculty in understanding the review process and in using the information to enhance the chances of successfully competing for federal funds are described. (Author/MLW)

A survey of rejected applicants for federal grants revealed that while most of them secured feedback from agencies regarding the disapproval, many were concerned about the value of such information. Follow-up and program modifications can result only when effective interaction is achieved. (MLW)

Determination of the impact of Federal agency requirements was the objective of a study conducted as part of the University of California Research Management Improvement Project. Specific recommendations for administrators are offered. For journal availability see HE 509 147. (LBH)

Interviews with faculty on decisions to submit proposals for external funding suggest that activity at the current institution is related to previous experience, and more experience in graduate school may have a strong, positive effect on later activity. (Author/MSE)

Various aspects of the costs of research are examined including: cost-sharing, indirect cost items, costs of proposal preparation, costs of research-academicians turned government-researchers and research-administrators. Budget items of a typical grant award are reviewed to determine which elements may be considered pay-off. (MLW)

A research administrator is seen as one who provides an environment conducive to the performance of research by allowing the principal investigator to spend as little time as possible with administrative paperwork. A protocol routing sheet and a checklist for protocol submissions are provided. (MLW)

The effective management of the university depends on the research office providing usable, accurate, timely, and accessible information regarding sponsored programs. The utilization of automated systems to store, access, and manage information is seen as essential. (MLW)

Diminishing resources have sent colleges and universities searching for innovative ways to increase external funding. Proposal development workshops to increase the number of individuals competent to submit competitive proposals were offered at the University of Oklahoma. Experiences in developing a model program are described. (Author/MLW)