PEERD Consulting Program

PEERD Review

When an institution requests a PEERD review, NORDP will identify at least two PEERD experts who are the best match for the institution and its goals (e.g., from peer institutions, can provide particular expertise requested by the institution, etc.). The experts, along with the PEERD coordinator, will conduct a conference call with institutional representatives to understand the purpose of the review; the review timeline, including the site visit; and the appropriate format of the final report. They will also discuss what background materials are most pertinent to assist in understanding the institution and the role of the research development office or activities. Background materials could include institutional research data, current institutional organization charts, research strategic plan(s), a list of roles and responsibilities, annual planning data for research development, and any recent internal reviews of research development activities. Background materials will be provided at least two weeks prior to the scheduled site visit. 

The itinerary for the site visit will be developed by the institution in close consultation with the PEERD experts. The on-site review will consist of interviews and/or focus groups with major stakeholders with the goal of crafting an action plan. PEERD experts will complete the report within 15 days of the conclusion of the site visit. The institution will have an opportunity to correct factual inaccuracies, request clarification, and ask questions before a final report is provided. The final report will be delivered within 5 days of the receipt of institutional feedback.

The confidential detailed report will include, as appropriate:

  • Identification of needs
  • Strategic planning
  • Benchmarking tools
  • Best practices
  • Program enhancement guidance
  • Service improvement

Cost

 A NORDP PEERD review allows institutions to view their research development operations through an external, objective lens, thereby helping to improve the impact and effectiveness of the unit.  

NORDP utilizes a flat-rate structure for PEERD services, which covers all costs for:

  • Expert fees
  • Planning conference call in advance of site visit
  • On-site visit
  • Exit interview(s) with institutional representative(s)

A confidential, detailed written report containing information such as a needs assessment, ideas for activities/programs to meet those needs, guidance on enhancing the research enterprise, best practices from other institutions, and benchmarking tools (contents of report are tailored to institutional review goals). 

In addition, the institution will separately cover on-site costs for the review team, including:

  • Lodging
  • Ground transportation between airport and hotel
  • Daily transportation between hotel and meeting location(s)
  • Lunches

Institutions interested in requesting a PEERD review can request a no-obligation cost estimate to aid in planning. A typical PEERD Review costs between $14,000 and $17,000, plus travel.

A minimum of 6-8 weeks should be planned between a PEERD review request and the site visit.