The 2016 F&A Survey, discussed during the June 2016 COGR Meeting in Washington, DC, pertains to the practices and experiences of research universities regarding Facilities and Administrative (F&A) cost rates. The survey, organized by COGR's Costing Policies Committee—comprised of university representatives from across the United States—aims to collect comprehensive data on F&A rates (both on-campus and off-campus), negotiation experiences with federal agencies, and specific administrative considerations from fiscal years 2012 to 2020. The data gathering process employs online tools (notably SurveyGizmo), with initial testing in mid-2016 and a full launch scheduled for late summer, providing preliminary insights by October.
Key aspects addressed in the survey include logistical and historical rate documentation, negotiation challenges, unique studies such as componentization and room-by-room equipment costing, and the federal rationale for accepting or rejecting proposed rates. Additional data points involve strategies for 4-year rate extension requests and handling of subawards without federally negotiated rates. The initiative is designed as a resource exclusively for member institutions, promoting regular communication and transparency, with the intent of informing future negotiations and policy formulation. Committee members also encouraged input and suggestions from participants to enhance the survey's value and comprehensiveness.
