Organisational and Collaboration Issues in supporting researchers Why are we doing this ? Supporting/encouraging projects and researchers using NREN services Engagement leading to mutual understanding What are some of the general issues we’ve experienced over the years that hinder progress Often due to: poor understanding and making assumptions (implicit/explicit) poor planning poor engagement with internal and external stakeholders

Sources of difficulty and approaches to take ? Researchers using NREN services awareness of what is available are these understood correctly ? NRENs understanding research requirements passing requirements to colleagues, acting as advocate where necessary dealing with "off portfolio" or unusual requests address these through early stage informal / exploratory discussions Identifying and resolving assumptions Iterate to reach better mutual understanding Clarity What are projects seeking ? Roles and responsibilities Questions to ask - technical, financial, policy… Being serious, objective, realistic… Feasibility – scope, scale.. Affordability – is there a budget to support the requirements ?

Within organisations hosting researchers: Key internal stakeholders/partners/service providers Do they understand the project or activity and its requirements Management & policy approval Infrastructure & services Does the researcher/project know how to communicate and engage with them ? Critical to Success frustration and failure to those who don’t !

Cross-organisation issues Project communication & co-ordination with project partners/collaborators with service/resource providers - NRENs plus & stakeholders (funders…) NREN communication & co-ordination between NRENs & with project partners Third parties – e.g funders or national / international bodies managing expectations feedback on approach What helps: Clear remit Clear roles and responsibilities Clear terms of engagement Looking Ahead