Total quantity or scope of tender
Suggestions on the methodological approach may include the following. Please note that the approaches stated here are intended as a guide, and that bidders may propose any combination of desk-based, quantitative or qualitative methods they deem appropriate.
(i) Conduct a literature review exploring innovation activity and the key challenges to growing innovation activity and investment in Wales, making comparisons with the UK and other small or devolved nations where appropriate. The literature review should add to the evidence set out in strategy documents and identify the ‘fit’ of the operation and its interventions with this context and identify any gaps in operation’s activity to address the issues around innovation in Wales.
(ii) Conduct a workshop with the delivery team, and consult others where relevant, to understand the key changes to CEMET since the production of the initial operation logic table. This will aid in the completion of revised operation logic tables to aid delivery of the operation.
(iii) In conjunction with (ii), this workshop with the delivery team can also be
used to gather information to put together a logic model for CEMET. The logic model should be the result of in-depth discussion about the rationale for intervention and the packages of support offered. The logic model should clearly outline how the interventions are intended to work, and outline how the context, inputs and activities lead to the outputs, outcomes and short and long term impacts, considering any potential barriers which may challenge the intervention logic, and discuss contingency plans that may need to be put in place should these situations arise.
(iv) Undertake a desk-based exercise with relevant documentation provided by the delivery team. Using the completed logic model, identify what data and processes will best provide an evidence base to support the delivery and monitoring of the operation’s activities. This could include consideration of the overall aims and objectives set out in the Business Plan, and the ERDF Operational Programme. The contractor should provide recommendations on changes to delivery and monitoring in line with their findings.
(v) Using the literature review in conjunction with a review of project documentation and monitoring of the operation’s activities, propose a short options paper, or set of recommendations that outlines potential approaches to taking baseline measurements for the operation. Recommendations may include suggestions at the beneficiary level, as well as wider, contextual considerations of the baseline.
(vi) Using the review of project documentation, a review of relevant business information databases, and primary research, such as interviews or focus groups to consult with relevant stakeholders, provide an options appraisal for the feasibility of measuring the counterfactual for the operation
Key deliverables will include:
(i) An initial report – including an agreed, detailed methodology, full work plan, risk register and roles and responsibilities of the team, as well as an outlined approach to carrying out the mid-term evaluation;
(ii) Weekly progress reports, identifying any risks and obstacles relating to the work and the steps that will be taken to address them;
(iii) Presentation of initial findings to the delivery team and a selection of key stakeholders prior to sign off of the final draft of the report;
(iv) Final report and executive summary (with the latter translated into Welsh);
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