Commissioning
Once the portfolio planning process has identified a need for new investments to deliver NERC's strategic priorities, we then use the commissioning process to make these investments.
Our commissioning process sets out what needs to be delivered for each investment, then tenders and selects research suppliers or managers. Further information on research programmes arising from the commissioning processes and their indicative timing of Announcement of Opportunities is available.
Commissioning is used for all NERC's strategically directed activities, including national capability and research programmes. It will not be used for project-level awards within strategic programmes or responsive funding because these already have effective grant-awarding processes.
Key features
Science, organisational and performance management targets are clearly identified and specified for each investment (although the process is intended not to be over-prescriptive and will balance wider needs and capabilities).
The roles of executive decision-makers and advisors are clearly separated.
The process is scalable depending on the size and complexity of the investment.
Commissioning for national capability investments are streamlined as this requires less frequent and intensive reviews than strategic research programmes.
A process map and user-guide is available to download. This has more comprehensive information and is written for NERC's science community and staff.
For more information please contact the Commissioning Process Manager:
Dr Sarah Collinge
Tel: 01793 411936