A microcomputer-controlled system for instrument processing and billing for complex analytical instruments funded by multiple sources in the University of California at Berkeley's College of Chemistry is described and its potential applications in other administrative situations are outlined. (MSE)

The factors that might be associated with success in interdisciplinary research are discussed with a focus on underlying psychological and other personal characteristics. Studies carried out during 1979-81 of over 150 interdisciplinary research projects are described. (MLW)

University-managed research differs greatly from industry-managed research in terms of budgeting, staffing, and decision-making. Procedures at the University of Guelph are cited that use an integrating control system to manage a project. For journal availability see HE 509 147. (LBH)

A survey of 99 pharmaceutical companies concerning their organization and use of project management techniques for research and development found that the industry is using project management increasingly in a variety of ways for better business planning and operations. (MSE)

Concern for the state of the humanities is a choice, not a necessity, for research administrators, but by fostering the humanities in any way, research administrators can nurture a vital tradition and a resource that contributes to the institution's basic purposes. (Author/MSE)

The administrative functions providing non-technical services to the technical research staff are often seen by researchers as antagonists, but they can enhance the research effort if organized and run correctly. To be effective, the services should be designed to enhance and not destroy creativity. (MSE)

The need to adapt a course in writing skills for proposal preparation to the different needs and characteristics of adult students is discussed, focusing on factors such as employer pressure as well as more general adult learner problems. Compensating strategies and course and materials design for teachers to use to increase student success are…

The DELTA Chart acts as a communication device by displaying project needs in flow-chart form. Its five elements are: Decision box, Event box, Logic box, Time Arrow, and Activity box. It can also provide the administrator with better planning and monitoring capabilities. For journal availability see HE 509 147. (LBH)

The appropriate relationship and interaction between technical staff, specifically scientists and engineers in research and development, and the administrative support staff, both generally and in key support units, are discussed. Suggestions for time saving include dealing directly with purchasing, facilities, employee relations, office support,…

A computerized budget projection program developed for faculty use in proposal preparation is described. The three budget components are global budget parameters, personnel, and other direct operating costs. Efficiency of budget preparation is greatly increased, especially for multiple-year budgets. A sample printout is included. (MSE)

Principles for developing successful university-industry partnerships offered: (1) recognize each others goals; (2) match the capabilities interests, and facilities of the institutions with the people involved; (3) develop trust among the individuals; and (4) recognize administrative differences. (MSE)

As a result of fiscal problems associated with university research programs, universities and colleges have altered their affiliated nonprofit foundations to assist with a debt-management role, or have created a new nonprofit organization to provide this type of service. The Colorado State University Research Foundation is described. (MLW)

The procedural changes identified in analyzing the 1979 Marquette University internal grants competition had the positive effect of improving the reliability of the peer review ratings. Improved reliability results in greater confidence in the peer review process on the part of the applicants and the reviewers. (MLW)

Research is seen as under pressure to deal with externally applied standards at the same time that it adheres to its own internal code of ethics. The tension and possible conflicts generated by this situation can greatly affect the quality of the research project. (MLW)

A process to support peer group interpretations and the development of a scientific consensus is described. Specific investigations in the area of ecology are described as representative of the application of the process. (Author/MLW)