Implement Improvements
The Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) uses process evaluation techniques to identify opportunities for continuous improvement. ORISE collaborates with each sponsor to make necessary modifications for future improvements based on the peer review evaluation. We combine input from reviewers, sponsors and our staff to find ways to strengthen and broaden our capabilities, as well as identify new, more efficient processes. Because each sponsor's expectations are unique, our job is to develop methods of improvement while maintaining the flexibility that drives the review process.
We distribute evaluation surveys for each review and carefully consider the results. Our dedication to continuous improvement and our commitment to technology explain why we are sought after by agencies to manage the peer review process.
Recent and significant process improvements include:
- Flexible scoring and criteria. As sponsor requirements for scoring scales increased in variability, PeerNet was enhanced to allow a wide range of numerical and narrative ranges as well as the provision for customized evaluation criteria.
- Electronic document distribution. PeerNet was enhanced to include electronic distribution of the documents reviewers are assigned to evaluate.
- Downloadable reports for sponsors. PeerNet was also revised to facilitate downloading commonly used reports that are compliant with industry-standard software applications.
- Contract with meeting facility. ORISE recently established a contract with a specialized meeting facility in the Washington D.C. area to provide a cost-effective and private meeting environment with the required technology infrastructure.
- Minimize financial obligation of reviewers. The ORISE logistical procedures were modified to minimize the reviewers' out-of-pocket expenses by offering to purchase airline tickets and direct billing hotel rooms. The reimbursement time was also decreased by providing on-site assistance for completing travel expense statements.