The document "Managing Externally Funded Sponsored Programs: A Guide to Effective Management Practices" serves as a comprehensive manual for institutions—such as research universities, affiliated medical centers, and independent research institutes—aiming to enhance the management and oversight of externally funded research programs. Authored by Jackie Bendall, the guide encourages institutions to critically assess and refine their management systems and internal controls, presenting effective practices supported by practical indicators for self-evaluation. Originally published in 1989 and now in its seventh edition as of July 2009, the guide is routinely updated to reflect evolving regulatory landscapes and is accessible both in print and online, with the online version featuring direct resource hyperlinks for user convenience.
Recent revisions to the guide demonstrate a streamlining of content, reducing the number of guiding principles from twelve to eight, and incorporating new and expanded topics such as international transactions, electronic research administration, and information management/security. There is also a heightened focus on the financial administration of grants, including cost sharing (clarifying that sponsors often do not expect it), and the introduction of a new principle addressing institutional infrastructure. Additionally, existing sections related to protection regulations have been revised and renamed to emphasize integrity and protection. The guide now also includes an expanded glossary to assist users and is distributed in both digital form and hard copies to institutional representatives, with additional copies available for purchase. The continued regular updates ensure that the guide remains a relevant and practical resource for institutions managing sponsored programs.
