Study on network analysis of the 7th Framework Programme participation : final report

This report examines the effectiveness of FP7's network approach in achieving EU research policy objectives and fostering Europe's international competitiveness in S&T. In investigating the potentials and limits of this approach, the study examines the effects of multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary, intersectoral and international collaborations on achieving the positive outcomes sought in FP7. The study's methods included a network analysis, a survey, case studies including in-depth interviews, a representative stakeholder workshop and regression analyses. The key findings reveal benefits from the continuity of research from FP6 to FP7. However, despite these demonstrated benefits and the increase in participants overall for FP7, the study also found a high attrition rate of organisations from FP6 to FP7. The report's six recommendations include allowing existing networks to continue research in successive calls, while ascertaining that new members are included, as this has a positive impact upon innovation. Clear guidelines outlining selection criteria expectations for the multidisciplinarity or interdisciplinarity and intersectorality of participants and the number of participating organisations, regions or countries in a project are recommended, and it is also recommended the European Commission investigate why 65% of the organisations present in FP6 did not participate in FP7.