Technical Groups

How technical work is organised

A technical group is established for an identifiable subject or task. Its terms of reference determine its scope, responsibilities and reporting route. The group's name does not confer authority beyond those terms.

Group directory

Group entries identify the subject, remit and current status. Use the group record to find its approved work and participation conditions. Similar subjects may involve different technical expertise or outputs.

Scope and authority

A group works within the task assigned to it. Recommendations, draft documents and final decisions have distinct statuses. The responsible approval function is identified for each output.

Work and outputs

The work programme connects tasks to intended deliverables. Authorised publications, consultations and project records provide the public account of that work. Internal discussion material is not automatically an approved Institute position.

Participation requirements

Participation is considered against the expertise needed and the conditions of the task. Applicants should understand the time commitment, information obligations and contribution expected. Membership of the Institute does not automatically constitute appointment to a group.

Interests and conduct

Participants disclose interests relevant to the work and observe confidentiality, document-use and conduct requirements. Restrictions or recusal may be necessary for a particular matter. Technical positions should be supported by reasons and evidence.

Read the remit and contribute

Begin with the group's remit and contribution requirements. An application should identify the group and the expertise offered.

Expert contributions