Description:

Emphasizing the phrase “research outputs,” NOAA recognizes the uniqueness of each research and development (R&D) project, as documented in the NOAA Administrative Order (NAO) defining Policy on Research and Development Transitions and its corresponding handbook (see NAO 216-105B). At the 2019 Weather Program Office (WPO) Social and Behavioral Science (SBS) R2O Workshop, physical and social science participants shared that in practice, however, they feel current R2O practices overemphasize technology transfers and underemphasize the other unique aspects of R&D outputs, such as the transfer of knowledge. Technology transfer is indeed an important priority to NOAA, especially as outlined in the Joint Technology Transfer Initiative as described in the Weather Research and Forecasting Innovation Act of 2017. As there is an interdependency between technology and knowledge transfer, the participant feedback gave WPO an opportunity to enhance the importance of knowledge transfer within our broader R2O practices and processes.

For example, while some projects intentionally prioritize technology outputs, participants noted that it is equally important to transfer knowledge surrounding that technology too. As such, WPO formed a team to assess technology focused transition plans and add language for the inclusion of knowledge transfer. This knowledge transfer may come in the form of papers, reports, or the need for training for those who will use the technology. In addition, WPO is working to create a process solely dedicated to knowledge transfer. Many workshop participants acknowledged that both the current transition plan template and readiness levels emphasize technology transfers and have less applicability for projects that solely focus on knowledge transfers. As such, WPO is working on creating a transition plan template that broadens the language for projects that anticipate transferring knowledge to NOAA.

Given the importance of knowledge transfer, we seek abstracts that will feature stories from both physical and social science researchers that have experience and/or are currently in the process of transitioning knowledge to NOAA operations. These presentations will provide first-hand accounts of the challenges and successes associated with transitioning knowledge and provide an opportunity to discuss how to make the process more efficient. Staff members from WPO’s Joint Technology Transfer Initiative Program and the Social Science Program will also discuss some of their ongoing collaboration efforts to improve knowledge transfers within their R2O practices and processes. This session will provide a forum for both the research and operational communities to provide feedback on these efforts, and to raise any additional R2O concerns involving knowledge transfer.