To help research infrastructures (RI) determine how close they are to being “global”, the GSO developed a “Framework” that identifies a set of 14 key principles (criteria). Any RI can use the Framework, although it primarily concerns GRIs and National Facilities of Global Interest (NFGI):
- The GSO framework defines a GRI as a facility whose governance and services are fundamentally international in character.
- A National Facility of Global Interest is defined in the GSO Framework as a facility with unique capabilities that attract wide interest from researchers outside of the host nation.
If you believe your facility is a GRI or a NFGI, you can download the GSO Framework and self-assess your alignment with each of its criteria.
Why assess your alignment with the GSO Framework?
- Self-awareness:
- You can identify your strengths and weaknesses as a GRI.
- The Framework draws your attention to some potentially neglected issues.
- It helps you set priorities, decide which areas you should focus on, and how.
- Communication and outreach:
- Showing that you are a GRI increases your international visibility and helps you establish partnerships.
- It increases your attractiveness, both as an employer and as a host for visiting researchers.
- Your funding agencies / sponsors may consider it an asset.
- It serves internal communication purposes, fostering staff adhesion to a common goal.