I just met with our Budget Director and VP for Finance about implementing an OMB Circular A-21
compliant effort reporting system.  At our institution a faculty memberÌs workload is measured in terms
of teaching 4 classes only.  This leaves us with the option of budgeting in 25% increments (release from
one class) during the academic year, pay honoraria (which is really not an option because its illegal), and
budget during periods outside of the academic year.  Anything less that 25% comes pretty much out of a
faculty memberÌs hide because there is no corresponding reduction in workload for the effort.

The reaction to my proposal to implement an effort reporting system was that its too hard to implement,
too much resistance from faculty and DHÌs, tried it years ago and didn't like it, wonÌt work in our
environment, etc., etc.  I countered that most of or peer institutions receiving federal grants probably
do have approved effort reporting systems because A-21 applies to everyone, not just the research
institutions.

We are a public comprehensive masters institution with a unionized faculty of 750.  We received $3
million in federal grant funding last year and will exceed $4 million this year.

I am looking for examples of peer institutions where effort reporting systems compliant with OMB Cir.
A-21 have been implemented.  If you fall into this category, I would sure like to hear from you!  I need to
illustrate that, yes, we can implement a workable system.

As always, thanks for your help.

Brian Anderson
Director, Office of Research Development
Eastern Michigan University
phone: 734-487-3090
email: xxxxxx@emich.edu

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