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Tip of the Week: One-stop principle helps professors to make funding applications

What is it?

The Department of Computer Science’s practices in relation to project management and research calls have been designed so that the process is as clear and simple as possible for professors, researchers and lecturers. 

How?

The funding application process has been made as simple as possible for researchers making applications. Their only task is to remember to report that they are applying for funding from a particular research call. Once the information is received, the academic coordinator takes responsibility for ensuring that all matters related to the application are taken care of. The coordinator makes contact with the departmental controller, human resources and the lawyer. The academic coordinator also sees to it that the necessary approvals and archiving are taken care of. The professor can concentrate on writing the application in cooperation with the grant writer.

What is it suitable for?

The one-stop service principle is suitable for many kinds of service processes in which the service users are unaware of how the service network operates, of who is responsible for what. Such service processes include, for example, organising conferences, checking applications, administrative matters and communication. 

Benefits?

The one-stop principle clarifies the process and facilitates the work of academic staff because they do not have to work out who all the people are that they need to get in contact with. The principle makes it quicker to make applications. The service also has a human face because the academic coordinator works in the department and so is familiar to the staff. Also, the department is able to make maximum use of all the services at the school and university level.

What is required?

The practice requires that the academic coordinator is present and available in everyday life. Basically, the coordinator knows what is happening in the department. They also provide support to the management in planning work. The process requires that all parties concerned are involved in the planning and that things are examined and readjusted as they progress. The practice also requires clear communication to new researchers and professors so that they know how things operate in the department.

Further information:

Vuokko Lepistö-Kirsilä, Aalto SCI, vuokko.lepisto-kirsila@aalto.fi