KK-stiftelsens profilsatsning

KK-stiftelsens profilsatsning
1.2.2 Recommendations
Earlier evaluations of the Knowledge Foundation’s focus on research
projects, platforms and profiles have recurrently pointed out critical factors
in the development of strong research environments. Hence, we focus on
improvements not yet realised and recommendations that will hopefully
encourage research environments and financiers to take another step
forward.
Research environments
• Formulate a clear science vision pointing out what it means to be worldclass
and prepare strategies for how to achieve this. Give early attention
to the need for consolidation and refining of research results with a
view to making a scientific breakthrough.
• Distinguish between BECOMING a strong research environment and
BEING one. Do not miss the opportunity to show a more daring attitude
when there are good results to capitalise on. An established identity
may need a finishing touch and be communicated and utilised to
influence the surrounding society in a wider sense in order to be able to
advance in the eyes of financiers and others.
• Initiate a discussion among potential collaborators about the short and
long-term potential in ‘open innovation’. Make use of the need for
balance between industry relevance and scientific excellence as a
starting point for argumentation. Agree on a strategy and policy for how
to disseminate the results in wider circles, both in academia and
industry.
Financiers
• Replace traditional mid-term and final evaluations with different types
of ongoing evaluation. This should include self-evaluations and the
structured exchange of experiences between players in similar research
environments. Arrange for a continuous use of both national and
international experts (peer reviews) at critical development stages in the
research environment.
• Design a performance management system with indicators illustrating
the research environment’s development steps and benefits (the
research environment as a result itself), rather than quantitative
measures as PhDs, publications etc. Connect the system to goals and
objectives as well as criteria for applications, financial allotments and
merit rating.
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