Now that you're ready to move forward, it's time to map out your project. Start by developing a general timeline and workflow to guide your progress.
Use RRC Polytech’s project management templates to help you define the project scope. This will give you a clear overview of your project from start to finish.
Keep in mind:
Your timeline may need to align with grant intake cycles or other institutional deadlines.
You can also reach out to the Project Management Office for additional support and guidance.
Taking the time to scope your project now will help set you up for success!
Before moving forward with your OER project, it’s important to check in with your Chair and your department. Getting early approval helps build support for your project and ensures your work aligns with departmental goals and RRC Polytech’s strategic priorities.
To clearly communicate your idea, consider using the templates listed below or your completed Project on a Page template when you reach out to your Chair for approval. These tools can help you outline your vision and show how your project fits into the bigger picture.
Be sure to get written permission from your Chair and/or Supervisor before you begin. This step helps formalize your plan and sets you up with the support you’ll need throughout the project.
Once you’ve received approval and scoped your project, the next step is ensuring you have the time and resources to bring it to life. Ensure you have permission from your Chair or Supervisor to proceed with the project and that you have talked with them to confirm that your project timeline and workload are manageable.
Then, explore funding opportunities that can support your work. Remember that some grants may have specific intake cycles, so aligning your project timeline is crucial.
Here are a few funding options to consider:
Strategic Transformation and Applied Research (STAR) is an internal funding program at RRC Polytech that aims to support a broad range of activities at the College, emphasizing interdisciplinary and multi-department projects.
Educator Advancement Grant Program: Campus Manitoba invites OER professional development projects aimed at enhancing skills and knowledge for educators.
OpenEd Manitoba Grant Applications: Campus Manitoba invites Manitoba educators to submit their grant applications for OER development. This grant is for OER projects contributing to accessible and inclusive learning experiences for Manitoba students.
With your project approved and funding in place, it’s time to think about the tools and platforms you’ll need to create your OER.
Start by considering what software and output formats will best support your OER project needs and goals. If you're planning to use Pressbooks, reach out to Library and Academic Services to discuss access. A limited number of Pressbooks instances are available for OER creation projects, so it’s a good idea to connect early.
Not sure what tools are right for your project? The Library team can help you explore your options.
Creating an OER is a collaborative effort; having the right team in place can make all the difference. Think of the steps from your project outline and the roles, such as authoring, reviewing, and copyediting, you will need to complete these steps. Start by assembling your project team and clearly defining each person’s role and responsibilities.
You can use the following template to help outline who’s involved and how they’ll contribute to the project.
Group Template – Roles and Responsibilities
Project Requirement: Once you have formed your team, those acting in Author roles for your project must complete the following agreement and submit it to the Copyright Officer. This step ensures everyone is on the same page regarding rights, responsibilities, and publishing expectations.
