Needs analysis
Examines the needs of institutions, businesses and education communities through interviews, surveys and existing data.
Research and planning
Research and planning for new projects
Every new project begins with research into the need. The needs of institutions and target groups are examined through interviews, surveys and existing data, and the findings are turned into a plan with a defined scope, responsible parties, timeline and resources.
Research
The need itself comes before the project idea
The Research and Strategy Directorate conducts preliminary research for new project ideas, prepares the annual needs analysis, sets research priorities and defines baseline and outcome measurements for projects.
Regional and sector note
Compiles, concisely and with sources, the information needed for joint work in target regions and sectors.
Research report
Presents findings together with information on methods and sources.
Recommendations file
Turns research results into recommendations for use in project selection and service design.
Methodological principles
Source, date and method are recorded in every output
- Interviews: Interviews with institutional representatives, experts and beneficiaries.
- Surveys: Comparable data collection using a method prepared in advance.
- Existing data: Records and publications with stated sources and dates.
- Transparency: Research outputs retain information on sources, dates and methods.
Research areas
- Digital transformation
- Education
- Regional studies
- Sector studies
- Project evaluation
Priority research work
- Inventory of shared needs
- Research agenda
- Indicator set
- Periodic needs reports
Planning
From research to a workable plan
Research findings are turned into a plan under six headings, together with partner institutions. The plan forms the basis of the project file and is the reference against which progress is measured throughout implementation.
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Scope and objectives
The need the project will address, the target group and the boundaries of its scope are defined.
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Work packages and responsibilities
The work is divided into packages; the person responsible and the supporting institution are identified for each package.
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Timeline
Milestones, delivery dates and reporting dates are scheduled.
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Resources and budget
Cash and in-kind contributions, budget items and support programmes are identified.
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Indicators
Baseline measurements, acceptance criteria and outcome indicators are defined.
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Risk and sustainability
Risks, mitigation measures and a post-project sustainability plan are set out.
Research cooperation
Joint research with the business community, universities and public institutions
Business organisations, associations, foundations, universities, ministries and public institutions with a field of application, a data need or a joint research topic can submit their proposals.