Classification of Proposal Activity

The classification of a proposal is based on the primary purpose or major objective of the activity the funds will sponsor. An explanation of Clemson University’s classification system for proposals is listed below.

Research (Program Codes 201, 207, 208) - Research constitutes the systematic study and investigation undertaken to discover or establish facts or principles.

Research is broadly subdivided into three types:

• "Basic research" is activity directed toward increasing knowledge in science. The primary aim of basic research is to further knowledge or understanding of the subject under study, rather than to enable practical application of that knowledge.
• "Applied research" effort (a) normally follows basic research; (b) attempts to determine and exploit the potential of scientific discoveries or improvements in technology, materials, processes, methods, devices, or techniques; and (c) attempts to advance state-of-the art processes, methods or products.
• "Development" denotes the systematic use of scientific and technical knowledge in the design, development testing, or evaluation of a potential new product or service (or of an improvement in an existing product or service) to meet specific performance requirements or objectives.

Instruction (Program Codes 110, 111) - This category includes activities that are part of the University's instruction programs. Activities for credit and non-credit courses; for academic, vocational, and technical instruction; and for regular, special and extension sessions should be classified instruction.

Public Service (Program Codes 3XX) - This category denotes activities established to provide non-instructional/non-research services beneficial to individuals and groups external to the University. Included are community service programs; e.g., demonstration projects, conferences, general advisory services, as well as most Cooperative Extension Service activities.