The document, “Managing Externally Funded Programs at Colleges and Universities: A Guideline to Good Management Practices,” produced by the Council on Governmental Relations (COGR), serves as a comprehensive framework for the effective administration of externally sponsored research and training activities within higher education institutions. It outlines key principles and recommended practices, emphasizing the critical importance of compliance with federal, state, and sponsor-specific regulations across all aspects of sponsored program management. The guideline addresses the establishment and maintenance of robust systems for fiscal administration, including cost allowability, proposal budgeting, financial accounting, cash management, compensation, cost sharing, and adherence to cost accounting standards, all underpinned by sound internal controls and transparent policies. Additionally, the document provides detailed directives on procurement, permanent equipment management, human resources policies, and the need for ongoing compliance assessments and audits to ensure accountability and institutional integrity.
Beyond administrative and financial management, the guideline stresses compliance with research-specific protection regulations, such as those governing human subjects, animal welfare, environmental safety, and facility security. It also covers intellectual property management, research integrity—including conflict of interest and misconduct policies—and the growing role of electronic research administration. Each principle is accompanied by practical indicators that institutions can use to assess their internal compliance and management systems, promoting continuous improvement and adaptability to evolving regulations. The document ultimately advocates for a well-defined governance structure, periodic education and training, clear delineation of roles and responsibilities, and rigorous, documented processes as the foundation for the ethical, efficient, and transparent stewardship of externally funded programs in colleges and universities.
