Complex grant proposals usually involve the creation of Centers, Institutes, Consortia, etc. When writing these proposals, leading faculty (PI/co-PIs) are often in the same “research is the only thing that matters” mindset, failing to realize that funding agencies put a high emphasis on the team’s ability to execute, established processes, integration within the host institution and across institutions, etc.
The Governance/Management/Center Design section of a proposal (multiple titles are given to these sections based on funder) outlines how a project will be organized, overseen, and administered. This section typically provides a clear description of the roles and responsibilities of the leadership and management team, as well as the processes in place to ensure that the project is effectively executed and achieves its goals.
Questions that need to be considered by the PI (and will most likely appear in the assessment of their grant by the reviewers):
-
Is the leadership and staff support structure clear and appropriate for the scale and complexity of the project?
-
How well qualified is the individual, team, or organization to conduct the proposed activities?
-
Does the design and organization of the Institute/Center/Consortia include effective mechanisms and fair, inclusive practices for allocating funds and resources, managing the proposed activities, attributing credit for intellectual contributions, and otherwise achieving the envisioned objectives?
-
Does the decision-making process seem effective, inclusive, ensuring both accountability and flexibility?
-
Are the external partners’ roles (e.g., subawardees, consultants, industry, etc.) clearly delineated as well as integrated into the larger structure?
-
How will the leadership team ensure effective collaboration and minimize silos between different teams, groups, disciplines, and institutions?
Key components in the "Governance and Management" (usually in a chart) section often include:
Examples of Organizational Charts
Examples of Governance Organizational Charts can be found on our Sharepoint Site. (Requires Penn State SSO credential.)