Licence central
License Central will be a web-based tool containing a set of dynamic templates of frequently used documents such as Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), data sharing agreements, material transfer agreements (MTAs), etc [1]
These templates will be complemented by a database of optional provisions for customisation of the templates. Such customisation will be based on the needs of the specific situations by leading users through a decision-tree type format that will prompt the user to go through the relevant questions that should be asked regarding project and partnership details, distribution modes, etc.
In 2009 we had the help of some interns to work on a database of agreements. This was an important part of the research phase. We feel it vital to ensure that we look at what the Centres are doing and then build upon the Centres’ experiences and needs. We are still collecting data - the more agreements, LoAs, MoUs etc we can collect, the more valuable this tool will be. Specific details can of course be deleted, we need only see more general clauses of information and language, not figures, names etc – so there is no risk of compromising a Centre’s confidentiality.
If you haven’t already contributed, and wish your Centres’ practices to be considered for this tool, please do get in contact with us directly.
Sebastian Poehlmann is the CAS-IP consultant now assigned to this project. He is currently working with both CAS staff and external IT specialists to develop a prototype of the Licence Central Online Environment (LCOE, see screenshot) that would allow intensive testing and evaluation of the approach by all parties involved. Flexibility is the major characteristic of the LCOE because of the complexity of the underlying agreements and we therefore aim to create a modular environment that allows for an easy expansion of its functionality to satisfy the potential needs of each individual user. CAS-IP is working towards a public release of the LCOE with a selection of the most important agreements during 2009
[1] These MTAs are for materials, e.g., processed starch, that do not fall under the standard material transfer agreement (SMTA) used for germplasm exchange under the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture.
Screenshot of Licence Central Online Environment (LCOE) (click to view larger image)
