If the EC accepts the recommendations of the SDIC in April, 1998, implementation
will require a series of actions that may be summarized as follows:
April - September, 1998: The EC should ensure that the report by the
SDIC, together with its own views and proposals for implementation, is
widely distributed within IUPAC and among the NAOs with a request for comments,
identification of potential problems, and suggestions for improvements.
During this period, written communications and informal dialogue among
IUPAC Officers, Division Presidents and Commission Officers should be encouraged.
September, 1998: The Bureau will be asked to approve a policy that (i)
vests in Division Committees responsibility for selection of and management
of scientific projects, (ii) defines the composition of Division Committees
and procedures for selection of Division Committees and Division Officers,
(iii) establishes criteria for approval of projects, and (iv) calls for
a phasing out of all current Commissions.
October, 1998: NAOs should be advised of the new policies and asked
for comments and/or suggestions for modification of the policies. NAOs
should be advised of changes in Bylaws that will be requested in 1999.
October, 1998 - August, 1999: Division Officers and Division Committees,
in consultation with their Commission Officers, should develop plans for
making the transition to a project-based system no later than 2001, with
some aspects phased in if desired in 1999. IUPAC Officers and the Secretariat
should provide any required assistance and cooperate in modifying procedures
whenever possible to facilitate the Divisions' efforts.
August, 1999: Council will be asked to modify Bylaw 4.307 as described
in the report. Council will be asked to terminate all existing Commissions,
effective December 31, 2001.