What prompted a new Strategic Plan?
A number of factors prompted the development of a new strategic plan. Most importantly, major scientific advances, new technologies, and new testing methods have emerged since the last strategic planning process occurred, making it imperative that we take advantage of new opportunities and develop a plan that would set the course for the future. We were also very interested in receiving input from members of the public, including all scientists, to help direct the future of research on how the environment influences human health. Another reason for the development of the plan is that tighter budgets make it imperative that a conscious effort be made to get the most public health benefit out of each dollar in the NIEHS budget. A strategic plan is among the best ways to do that.
