Research Plan
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Section 4
Timetable – there must be some estimated
timetable even if it is recognised that in the
nature of research it may have to alter. How far
can the timetable be allowed to slip before it is
unacceptable? Will the Research Project run for
a fixed term or until the objectives are achieved,
perhaps with a backstop date?
Cost – there should be some forecasted costing
for the Project allowing for some contingency. If
part of the cost is a contribution to overheads, be
specific about how this has been calculated in
case figures have to be reviewed in the future,
particularly over the term of a long project. Be
clear about when payments will have to be made
and make sure that funding for the research is
timed to meet the projected cash flow.
Dissemination – how do participants anticipate
disseminating the IP?
We shall look at some of these in more detail later.
However hard one tries, the Research Plan will not be perfect. As the Project
progresses there may be the need for some changes to be made. Minor
changes to the Project may not need the Research Plan to be changed at
all and can simply be agreed between the Project Managers. However,
there will be changes that will impact on the Research Plan. If the Research
Plan might otherwise constrain you, it is possible to include what are known
as "change control procedures" to deal with these.
