Effective-Tools-and-Methods-for-Managing-Team-Workload-and-Performance-in-R_20241021_212253_0000
Effective-Tools-and-Methods-for-Managing-Team-Workload-and-Performance-in-R_20241021_212253_0000
Welcome to this presentation on managing team workload and performance in research grants. I'm Iroh
Williams Okwara, Research Management Officer at the University of Port Harcourt. With extensive
experience in securing and managing multimillion-dollar research grants, I'll share insights on effective
tools and methods that have proven successful in navigating the complex world of research grant
management.
WI by Williams Iroh
Leadership and Vision in Research Grant Management
My experience encompasses leading successful grant applications and post-award administration for large-scale projects funded by global organizations such as the
World Bank. I've secured and managed multimillion-dollar research grants, including the World Bank Africa Centre of Excellence for Oilfield Chemicals Research and
Public Health and Toxicological Research. This experience has honed my skills in navigating complex regulatory requirements, financial reporting, and compliance.
Throughout my career, I've trained administrative and academic staff on research grant procedures, financial management, and best practices for compliance with
national and international regulations. Collaboration with Principal Investigators (PIs) and research teams has been a key focus, offering full support throughout the grant
lifecycle, from application development to final financial reporting.
Grant Application
1
Lead successful applications for large-scale projects
Post-Award Administration
2
Manage multimillion-dollar research grants
The visual nature of Trello boards helped streamline communication across research teams, ensuring everyone was on the
same page regarding project status and upcoming tasks. This tool proved particularly effective in managing the complex,
multi-faceted nature of large-scale research grants.
The Eisenhower Matrix has been a crucial method in my toolkit for effective task prioritization. This approach allowed me to prioritize critical
tasks such as timely preparation of compliance documents and handling donor-specific queries without neglecting long-term planning. By
categorizing tasks based on their urgency and importance, I could ensure that high-priority items received immediate attention while still
maintaining focus on strategic, long-term objectives.
Implementing this method significantly improved time management and reduced stress levels within the team, as it provided a clear
framework for decision-making in a fast-paced research environment.
One of the key benefits of InfoEd was its ability to facilitate coordination across multiple research stakeholders. This enhanced transparency and
accountability throughout the project, ensuring that all team members had access to up-to-date information and could collaborate effectively.
The daily stand-ups fostered a sense of accountability and team spirit, allowing for quick identification and resolution of potential
roadblocks. This regular communication ensured that all team members were aware of the project's progress and could offer
support where needed.
By implementing strict financial controls and regular audits, I've been able to maintain transparency and accountability in fund
utilization. This approach has been crucial in building trust with funding organizations and ensuring the smooth continuation of long-
term research projects.
I've developed a systematic approach to compliance management, which includes regular training sessions for staff, creation of comprehensive
compliance checklists, and implementation of internal review processes. This proactive stance has helped prevent compliance issues and ensured
smooth operations of research projects.
Regulatory Knowledge
Stay informed on latest regulations
Compliance Checklists
Develop comprehensive guidelines
Staff Training
Conduct regular compliance workshops
Internal Reviews
Implement periodic compliance checks
Interdisciplinary Project Management
Managing large, interdisciplinary research projects requires a unique set of skills and strategies. Throughout my career, I've successfully coordinated diverse
teams of researchers, administrators, and external partners to achieve project goals. This has involved creating clear communication channels, establishing
shared objectives, and fostering a collaborative environment that encourages innovation.
One key strategy I've employed is the use of cross-functional teams, bringing together experts from various disciplines to tackle complex research
challenges. This approach has not only led to more comprehensive research outcomes but has also promoted knowledge sharing and skill development
across the team.
Looking ahead, I am excited about the opportunity to leverage these methods and tools to enhance research management capabilities
at Heriot-Watt University. By combining proven strategies with innovative approaches, we can create an environment that fosters
groundbreaking research while ensuring efficient and compliant grant management.