Program Development

1.1 Scope

This section discusses suggested processes and procedures for identifying and developing the research program of the Institute. These research programs specify the rationale for, and objectives of, the research activities carried out by the Institute. It also provides the framework and substantive guidelines for identifying the specific studies that need to be carried out under the Institute's research program. It defines the research agenda which includes the list of topics for research, identifies possible proponents, and indicates the potential funding sources for the program.

1.2 Objectives

The processes and procedures will help direct PIDS research effort to areas that are deemed important and crucial to the government's policy making. In addition, the proposed procedures will help ensure, on the one hand, that substantive inputs of researchers are provided in the development of the research program through a rigorous technical process. On the other hand, the procedures will strengthen the policy orientation of the research program through a consultative process with policy-makers and appropriate interest groups.

1.3 Processes and Procedures

1.3.1 Identification of Broad Area of Research

Ideas/opinions/recommendations of various groups involved in research shall be solicited, and in the process identify the broad area of research which the Institute initially could consider in setting up its major research thrust. The area of research shall be primarily determined by the following: (a) Board of Trustees directives; (b) senior research staff recommendations; (c) consultations with government agencies and funding sources; and (d) recommendations of PIDS research advisory committees and external reviewers.

1.3.2 Preparation of the Framework Paper and State-of-the-Art reviews

Following the identification of broad area of research, the RSD shall identify, either from among the Institute's senior staff or from outside PIDS, a program coordinator. The program coordinator shall have primary responsibility for the substantive development of the research program. This involves the preparation of the framework paper and the state-of-the-art reviews.

The RSD will provide support to the coordinator in the identification, contracting, and monitoring of studies which may be necessary in developing the research program. It shall also be the responsibility of the RSD to identify and obtain the required funds to cover the cost of research program development. These may be drawn from the RSD's program and project development support fund or from special external sources that may be tapped.

1.3.3 The Consultative Seminar Workshop

Immediately upon completion of the framework paper and the state-of-the-art reviews, the RSD shall request the RID to organize a consultative seminar-workshop. The objectives of the consultative workshop are : (a) to present the suggested research program to appropriate parties; (b) solicit formal and informal reactions, comments, and suggestions of these different groups on the proposed program; (c) forge a consensus among the participants on the research issues that need to be addressed and consequent topics for research; (d) identify the potential donor agency/cies which may be tapped to support the program and, to the extent possible, get the commitment of these participating donors in the workshop; (e) identify researchers who may asked to carry out the agreed upon studies; and (f) explore arrangements that may be set-up to ensure the continuing participation of interest groups in the implementation of the program (e.g. establishment of project steering and advisory committees, etc.).

The basic materials for the consultative workshop shall consist of the framework paper and the state-of-the-art reviews. The participants to the workshop shall include policy-makers; representatives of relevant government agencies; other researchers; PIDS senior staff; the private sector; NGOs; donor agencies; and other interest groups. Discussants to the presentations shall be designated and should always include a policy-maker.

1.3.4 Finalization of the Research Program

The research coordinator shall finalize the program paper through the incorporation of the results of the consultative wokshop. The final program paper should include, among others, the objectives and scope of the research program; the research issues; a review of past and current research; the research gaps; priority topics for research; possible researchers and potential funding sources.

The program development processes discussed above are outlined in Chart 1.