Overview
Title
Notice of Proposed Information Collection Requests: 2022-2024 Grant Performance Report Forms
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The Institute of Museum and Library Services wants to know what people think about how they ask for information when they give away grant money, hoping to make it easier and less confusing. They're asking for ideas on how to do this better by March 8, 2021.
Summary AI
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is seeking public comments on the proposed renewal of its information collection request related to grant performance reporting for the years 2022-2024. The IMLS aims to streamline the reporting process, minimize the burden on respondents, and ensure the practical utility of the information collected. Public feedback is especially encouraged to assess the necessity and effectiveness of this data collection and suggest improvements. Comments must be submitted by March 8, 2021, to Connie Bodner of IMLS.
Abstract
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), as part of its continuing effort to reduce paperwork and respondent burden, conducts a pre-clearance consultation program to provide the general public and Federal agencies with an opportunity to comment on proposed and/or continuing collections of information in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act. This pre-clearance consultation program helps to ensure that requested data can be provided in the desired format, reporting burden (time and financial resources) is minimized, collection instruments are clearly understood, and the impact of collection requirements on respondents can be properly assessed. The purpose of this Notice is to solicit comments concerning the three-year approval of the forms necessary to report on grant and cooperative agreement activities on interim and final bases for all IMLS grant programs. A copy of the proposed information collection request can be obtained by contacting the individual listed below in the ADDRESSES section of this Notice.
Keywords AI
Sources
AnalysisAI
The document under discussion is a notice from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), published as part of their efforts to collect information for grant performance reports covering the years 2022-2024. The IMLS, which functions as a key supporter of museums and libraries across the nation, invites the public to comment on proposed changes to these reporting forms. This request for comments is a standard procedure aimed at ensuring the data collected serves its intended purpose effectively while minimizing burdens on those who are required to provide it.
Summary of the Document
The IMLS is proposing to renew certain forms used for reporting on grants and cooperative agreements. These forms are necessary for recipients to comply with interim and final reporting requirements. The notice calls for public comment, encouraging stakeholders to provide feedback on the necessity and utility of these forms, as well as any associated burdens. Comments are especially sought regarding the clarity and technological accessibility of these forms, which will help shape their final versions.
Significant Issues and Concerns
Several areas of the notice are marked with "TBD" (To Be Determined), notably the "Number of Respondents," "Estimated Average Burden per Response," and "Total Annual Costs." These omissions suggest that the IMLS may not have definitive data on the number of participants expected or a clear understanding of the potential burden placed on respondents. This lack of concrete information can be concerning, as it might imply insufficient planning or forecasting, which could affect the efficiency of grant reporting processes.
Additionally, while the notice mentions utilizing technologies to reduce the reporting burden, it lacks specifics. Knowing which technologies are under consideration would provide greater insight into how respondents might benefit from streamlined processes, particularly if electronic submissions or automated methods are part of the plan.
Impact on the Public and Specific Stakeholders
Broadly, this document outlines a process that aims to enhance the transparency and efficacy of how IMLS grant reporting is conducted, potentially leading to improved practices within participating museums and libraries. By soliciting public comments, the IMLS is opening a door for libraries, museums, and other stakeholders to voice their support or concerns for the proposed systems.
For specific stakeholders, such as grant awardees, the changes to reporting forms and processes could have a more pronounced impact. Positive outcomes could include less time and fewer resources spent on fulfilling reporting obligations if the proposed changes effectively reduce the reporting burden. Conversely, the current lack of detailed information regarding respondent impacts and unspecified technological upgrades could lead to uncertainty among potential respondents about how they are expected to comply with these requirements. Stakeholders might also be left wondering about the practical applications of their input if concrete examples of previous improvements or changes based on public feedback are not outlined in the notice.
Overall, while the document presents an opportunity for public involvement in refining IMLS's procedures, it also highlights several areas where additional clarity and detail would benefit stakeholders, ensuring that their feedback can lead to tangible improvements in grant reporting frameworks.
Issues
• The document does not specify the exact number of respondents anticipated ('Number of Respondents: TBD'), which could indicate a lack of precise planning or forecasting.
• The estimated average burden per response and the total annual burden are also marked as 'TBD', suggesting that the impact on respondents has not been fully determined.
• The total annualized capital/startup costs are noted as 'n/a', but the total annual costs are marked 'TBD', which could indicate insufficient information regarding financial implications.
• The document outlines the purpose and nature of the information collection and invites public comments, but does not provide specific examples or scenarios of how the collected information is utilized to improve agency procedures, which might make it more persuasive or transparent.
• The document mentions minimizing the burden of information collection, including through technological means, but lacks specificity on what these technologies might be, leading to potential ambiguity.
• The language used is somewhat formal and could be clarified in some areas to ensure accessibility and understanding by the general public, especially regarding the technical aspects of grant performance reporting.