I agree.  Unfortunately at the Smithsonian Institution, making
on-site visits is not so easy.  Truth is, the majority of our
PI's are not even located on "the mall" and are not readily
accessible from our office.  Our main research facilities are as
close as a 30 minute car drive to as far away as Panama!  With a
budget almost entirely used towards salary, travel is almost out
of the question.  Ideally, we would like to hold on-site
demonstrations during our trainings, but unfortunately we do not
have readily accessible computer facilities (ie -- computer
labs).  Among those PI's I have been able to meet with, I have
had success and would strongly suggest others to get out there
and meet with your customers -- if you can.

Laura Mahoney
Grant/Contract Specialist
Office of Sponsored Projects
Smithsonian Institution

>>> Research Administration Discussion Group
<xxxxxx@health.state.ny.us> 12/28/96 11:47am >>>

The bottom line is to get out of your office and  visit your
faculty, your
users,
your CUSTOMERS in their own territory.  They will be very
greatful and
remember this extra effort you put forth on their behalf.  You'll
also
learn quite a bit about the people you assist from visiting them
at their
home away from home.
The strategy applies equally well to any other new policy or
procedure you
wish to introduce.

Doug Wilde
xxxxxx@engr.uark.edu