Printed on: 04/26/2024. Please go to policy.umn.edu for the most current version of the document.
University of Minnesota  Appendix

Guidelines for Reviewing Outside Consulting and Commitment Requests

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The table below provides guidance for the review of requests to engage in outside consulting and other external professional commitments.

Possible Conflict of Commitment Area Guiding Principle Factors to Consider When Reviewing Report or Request
Activity may interfere with the performance of regular employment Faculty member must be able to continue normal teaching, research, service, and departmental participation or professional/academic staff member must be able to maintain regular job responsibilities
  • Will faculty member be able to continue to meet classes?
  • Will faculty member be able to continue to meet departmental goals and expectations regarding scholarly activity and service?
  • Will faculty member continue to be able to participate actively in departmental affairs?
  • Will the professional/administrative employee be able to meet job expectations?
  • Can reasonable accommodations be made to facilitate proposed activity in light of responsibilities?
  • Should a reduction of the term of appointment (or a leave) be considered?
Activity involves teaching at another school or an online course Outside commitment may not compete with courses or services offered by the University
  • Is the course or subject offered at units at the University?
  • Does it diffuse the uniqueness and quality of the U's offerings?
  • Might students at other institution enroll in University academic programs or take University coursework?
Activity involves conducting research through an outside entity Outside commitment may not interfere with performance
  • Does this compete with contract opportunities for the University?
  • Can the individual conduct the research at the University?
  • Is this kind of research within the mission of the unit?
  • Is the individual on a full-time (75% time or greater) appointment?
Activity involves serving as officer of professional society or editor of professional journal Benefits of assuming professional leadership responsibilities for institutional reputation and personal career development need to be taken into account in considering relief from normal job responsibilities.
  • How will professional leadership enhance the reputation of the institution, department, or individual?
  • The significance of the proposed leadership role
  • The extent and duration of the potential impact on the individuals' teaching and research load.
  • The impact of professional service on University resources