Evaluation and selection process - FP7 SEC Clause Samples

Evaluation and selection process - FP7 SEC. Among the findings were that the evaluation and selection process overall works well, with evidence that high quality projects have been selected. Another finding was that it was appropriate to base the selection procedures for FP7 SEC on wider DG RTD procedures32 already in place that have evolved over successive Framework Programmes. This helped to avoid reinventing the wheel. Since the outset of the programme, some modifications have been made to the procedures for evaluating proposals, in particular, the transition to ‘remote evaluation’. Originally, projects were assessed by evaluators physically present with hard copy versions of applications. Now, proposals are reviewed by independent evaluators separately who receive a copy of the proposal electronically. Remote evaluation was viewed as having improved efficiency, without undermining the quality of the application screening and evaluation process. Evaluators are still called to Brussels for the consensus meeting, and for projects that are sensitive and involve classified information. The external evaluators receive appropriate training on how the detailed evaluation process should be carried out. Other questions relating to the evaluation and selection process include the extent to which beneficiaries found the application process user-friendly. Overall, most beneficiaries felt that the application process had run smoothly, although some larger consortia were concerned about the amount of administrative and financial information that has to be collected from partners (this cannot be avoided however, unless there are changes to the EU Financial Regulation). Guidance for applicants was viewed as useful and detailed, however it was pointed out that a shorter guidance document could be produced for SMEs and end-users containing simplified information. Public entities potentially interested in taking part in FP7 SEC have very little time and it would help to secure their participation if there were a simplified procedure for them to take part in the programme.