The CODB (Cost of Doing Business) document, authored by COGR and published in 2003, provides a comprehensive study of the escalating administrative costs faced by research institutions over the preceding decade. The report commences with an executive summary and introduction, outlining significant regulatory and operational developments impacting universities and research organizations. It builds upon findings from an earlier COGR study, employing a detailed methodology to assess incremental costs across various administrative domains.
The results section, supported by extensive graphical data, quantifies increases in expenditures related to compliance, grant administration, and operational management over several years. Notably, the document presents case studies on the implementation of regulations such as HIPAA, the PATRIOT Act, environmental and safety standards, space surveys, and institutional review processes, as well as complexities related to Medicare billing in clinical trials. The study concludes with targeted recommendations aimed at mitigating administrative burden while maintaining compliance and institutional integrity. Overall, the document serves as an informative resource for stakeholders seeking to understand and address the financial and regulatory challenges confronting research institutions.
