Technical Reporting

Technical reports are the responsibility of the Principle Investigator (PI). The due dates and any required form or formats for technical (also known as "performance" or "progress" reports) are included in the terms of an award.  Most commonly, technical reports are due on an annual or budget period basis plus a final report within 90 days following the expiration date of the award.   Federal agencies may not require performance reports more frequently than quarterly on federal grants, and not less frequently than annually.  Federal contracts may have more frequent reporting requirements.

Generally, OMB Circular A-110, Section .51 prescribes that technical reports should include:  (1) a comparison of actual accomplishments with the goals and objectives established for the period, the findings of the investigator, or both.  Where appropriate and feasible, quantitative data should be tied to cost data.  (2) reasons why established goals were not met, if appropriate; (3)  other pertinent information, including any necessary explanations of unusually high costs or overruns.