The contractor shall perform the following analysis by collecting relevant information, data and perspectives through individual interviews, focus groups, and primary and secondary research methods (as appropriate) using the industry and research sectors in the States Blue Ocean strategy: I. Identify the top five to ten R&I assets in Louisiana in each of the twelve Blue Ocean industry segments and assess their current and potential impact on economic development. These R&I assets shall include, but shall not be limited to, leading research programs, centers of excellence and institutes, buildings, infrastructure, equipment, and researchers. As part of this effort, identify and benchmark the top ten researchers in each Blue Ocean industry segment (Louisiana and worldwide) through an analysis of their research funding, productivity and bibliometrics / citation analysis and develop a description of their research programs. II. Identify meaningful, objective and quantifiable measures and benchmark each of Louisianas R&I assets by Blue Ocean industry segment against relevant assets in other competing locations (e.g., states). Identify best practices and emerging practices for programs and assets as part of the benchmarking effort, focusing on financial, process, human capital, organizational and innovation capabilities, as well as innovation outcomes. III. For each of the twelve Blue Ocean industry segments, identify the top five to ten R&I asset gaps as well as potential challenges and opportunities with federal and private-sector sponsors, and provide recommendations to address gaps and capture opportunities. IV. Identify opportunities to increase federal and private-sector sponsored research for collaborative, applied, and interdisciplinary research projects relevant to the Blue Ocean industry segments. V. Develop a plan to address recommendations following from the analysis organized as a set of action items prioritized by anticipated cost, impact, ease of implementation, and timeframes for completion. VI. Plan and facilitate at least one statewide workshop to share best practices and findings between researchers and industry to enhance collaboration and to identify the appropriate forum for concerns. VII. Provide weekly progress reports to Contract Monitor. No additional specifications were given.
