Hi-

>Since we still need to construct a budget to get to the >bottom line (the
only figure NIH wants) we require a >detailed budget as in the past.

 Sorry to resurrect this discussion of a month past, but shouldn't all of
these "Just-in-Time" questions also be asked of the impending "Modular
Grants" system?  The difference is that NIH will NEVER (except in rare
circumstances) ask for the budget details...even when the grant is awarded.
 I am a novice to fiscal management, but if NIH does not care about
details like the cost of a trip to a meeting, or the cost of supplies X and
Y, or whether subjects are paid $10 or $40, then does the institution need
to know before the actual expenditure?
 Clearly, a detailed budget is useful in guessing whether grant funds are
being used appropriately.  But if the PI can come up with a bottom line
based on estimated modules which looks reasonable (to reviewers) in
relation to the science, and all personnel and indirect cost questions are
answered, then why do the absolute details ever need to be PROPOSED?
Awarded funds are never spent exactly the way the budget reads.  Why not
let all of the details emerge as money is spent?
 A grant is not a contract.  How flexible can we be?

Charlie Hathaway
Office of Grant Support
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Bronx, NY