Concept Research Programme
Concept Research Programme
The Concept Research Programme develops ways of improving the use of resources and enhancing the effects of major public investments. The principal goal of the Concept Research Programme is to develop knowledge and expertise on projects in the front-end phase, from the initial visualization until the decision to implement is made. Trailing research on large public investment projects is the main project activity. The goal is to attain better use of resources and greater effects of such investments. The Norwegian Ministry of Finance funds the programme.
Contact information
Programme Director
Gro Holst Volden
tel: +47 957 45 565
Senior Researcher
Morten Welde
tel: +47 977 30 031
New publications
The most recent report in the Concept Report Series is no. 74 on challenges in collaboration-oriented projects.
We also publish ex-post evaluations of investments projects, as well as working papers on different subjects.
Most of our publications are in Norwegian only. The Concept reports have a summary available in English. Report no. 36, Lessons with the Norwegian State Project Model, is entirely in English. Report no. 47 and 54 is in English too.
Fifth framework agreement on quality assurance
The Ministry of Finance has signed an agreement with seven Norwegian constellations of consultants to perform external quality assurance in the planning process of major public investments. This is the sixth agreement of the Norwegian quality assurance scheme, and it will last through 2025, with an option of a two-year extension.
Concept International Symposium on Project Governance
The Concept International Symposium on Project Governance is a meeting place for key professionals in administration, practice and research to build networks and exchange experience. The event is organized by the Concept Research Programme and is held every 2nd year in Norway. Participation is by invitation.
The 9th and last Symposium was held in September 2022 in Asker, outside of Oslo, Norway.
The next symposium will take place 18-20 September 2024, again in Asker, at Holmen Fjordhotell.
Student projects
Concept assist students who will write a maste thesis. We cover different subject areas, especially project management and social economy.