Action Class Matrix

If the review involved a panel, scientists will receive the consolidated 'Panel Recommendations,' with expandable "ARS response" boxes inserted for their comments. Scientists must respond to each major question or recommendation made by the reviewers, and must provide an answer or explanation in each response box. The TONE of the response should be neutral and never defensive or condescending. The CONTENT of the response should indicate that the scientists have made all reasonable efforts to accommodate the suggestions made. Lack of adoption of a given suggestion must be justified. Each 'ARS response' should be sufficiently detailed an explanation to stand on its own. In other words, describe what modifications have been made to the Plan (along with citing page and line numbers of where those changes appear) or, clearly spell out why they were not incorporated.

Example of an ARS Response

Note that the Panel Recommendation (with completed ARS responses) is sent back to the panelists, even if the revised Project Plan is not re-reviewed!

When the Project Plan has been revised, the same administrative approval process is required as for the initial Plan. Under favorable reviews, this revision process takes about 6 weeks to complete. Projects that require Major Revision may require more time to revise and will be re-reviewed by the original peer reviewers. Projects that are classed as 'Not Feasible,' may be revised or may be postponed for a fresh Peer Review Process.