The main goal of a Strategy Evaluation Protocol (SEP) evaluation is to evaluate a research unit in light of its own aims and strategy. An assessment committee of independent experts assesses the performance of the unit based on the self-evaluation and a site visit.
The main goal of the SEP is to maintain and improve the quality and societal relevance of research as well as to facilitate continuous dialogue about research quality, societal relevance and viability in the context of research quality assurance. This goal is accomplished by assessing a research unit in light of its own aims and strategy. The main document that forms the basis for the evaluation is a self-evaluation written by the unit, in which it reflects on its aims, strategy and achievements during the previous six years as well as its aims and strategy for the future. The unit presents these elements in a coherent, narrative argument and supports this narrative, wherever possible, with factual evidence derived from well-substantiated indicators. The narrative is further illustrated by one or more case studies.
The evaluation is performed by an assessment committee, consisting of independent academic peers as well as optionally nonacademic experts. This committee is appointed by the relevant board, which also determines the Terms of Reference for the assessment. Starting from the questions in the Terms of Reference, the assessment committee evaluates the unit based on the self-evaluation report and a site visit, during which it interviews delegates from the unit and other relevant persons. The committee evaluates the unit’s developments and results over the past six years as well as its research plans for the years to come. The committee provides recommendations with an eye to future improvements, including with regard to the unit’s self-formulated aims and strategy.
The executive board of the university, the board of NWO or the board of KNAW commissions the SEP assessment. The board then responds to the report of the assessment committee. The board and the research unit will use the report as part of their quality assurance cycle. The assessment report and the board’s response will be made publicly available within six months of the site visit.