Synthesis and options for enhanced priority assessment for agricultural and natural resources research.

Abstract

AbstractLessons are synthesized from chapters in this book, and a possible way forward is suggested for meeting priority assessment challenges under the multiple objectives of Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) Centers, National Agricultural Research Systems (NARS) and other research institutions. Over time, agricultural research system goals and objectives have broadened in directions that challenge previous priority assessment tools. Meanwhile, the CGIAR Centers have independently developed their priority assessment approaches over time, and substantial differences in approaches have evolved. However, a common set of challenges and good practices is evident across the various exercises, which can be best handled if explicitly considered during the design of priority assessment efforts. Adherence to a few basic identified priority assessment principles may help improve consistency in methods across institutes and programmes. So as to help expand the application of these principles, the chapter provides brief suggestions for priority assessment methods that incorporate impacts of natural resource management and policy-oriented research.