There are some basic steps to ensuring that the partnership maintains its focus over time. First, keep the research agenda focused on practical problems, supported by relationships, and reinforced by regular communication. Second, use MOUs to clarify key agreements and principles at the outset of projects. Finally, hold regular check-ins to help partners monitor progress.
A research agenda provides a useful overview of the RPP’s work, but it needs to be sufficiently current to inform ongoing discussions about what projects to pursue and which lines of work to develop. Many effective RPPs regularly review the research agenda during joint partner meetings and maintain strong lines of communication at all steps along the way.
