Task matrix ‒ a new method of rationing R&D labor

Relevance. Modern scientific activity is characterized by an ever-increasing complexity of research. An analysis of scientific publications in recent years shows that the development of effective and universal approaches to the management of scientific activities in general and its planning in particular is still extremely relevant.

The purpose is to develop a transparent and flexible scientific activity management system that would be accessible to both the institution's management and research and development staff.

Objectives: to analyze literary sources; to develop principles for rationing research work; to develop and implement the "Task Matrix" tool.

Methodology. The type of research is analytical. The main stages of the research included: analysis of literary sources; development of principles for rationing KPIs; development of principles for rationing the workload of researchers; development of the "Task Matrix" tool.

Results. The paper proposes 6 principles of KPI rationing and 5 principles of rationing the workload of researchers. Due to the consideration of the peculiarities of scientific work, the proposed principles have demonstrated their effectiveness. Based on these principles, a tool for managing scientific activities, the Task Matrix, has been developed. The "Task Matrix" allows managers of a scientific institution to manage the achievement of KPIs: monitor interim results and respond promptly to risks. The developed tool provides line managers with the opportunity to influence processes within departments, and employees with the opportunity to gain experience and develop competencies. In addition, another feature of matrix management was the separation of scientific and organizational and administrative activities, which allowed researchers to fully focus on research work.

Conclusions. The developed Task Matrix tool allows creating an open and trusting scientific environment, helps to realistically plan the achievement of KPIs over a three-year horizon, which ultimately ensures a significant improvement in the performance of a scientific institution and public recognition of the results achieved.

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