BTO evaluation 2016

The added value of the collective BTO research programme

The Dutch water companies, the Flemish De Watergroep and the branch association Vewin are collectively engaged in a long-term applied science research programme: the Joint Research Programme for the Water Companies, or BTO. KWR is the coordinator and implementing knowledge institute for the sector. The mission of BTO is to generate scientific knowledge that strengthens the water companies in their pursuit of their societal task, namely: ensuring a healthy, sustainable, efficient and advanced (drinking) water provision. The programme is regularly assessed to account for the research conducted and the budget allocations. The objective of the BTO Evaluation is to assess BTO’s added value, the added value of the research outcomes (knowledge valorisation), and the functioning of the BTO processes and structures.

A survey and six case studies

This evaluation employed a combination of quantitative and qualitative analysis. A survey was carried out of the members of the theme groups who supervise the research projects for the drinking water companies. Six case studies were also conducted into particular projects in an effort to gain greater insight into the patterns of collaboration and implementation.

Theme group members report being generally satisfied to being very satisfied with the implementation of the BTO research, the report preparation and the consultations on the direction taken by the research. We also found that sharing expectations at the start of projects and maintaining contact during the project execution are crucial to collaboration and implementation. The evaluation resulted in recommendations for the BTO programme management, KWR researchers, drinking water companies and theme group members. BTO programme management will take the lead in following up on these recommendations.