How Covid-19 Changed Grant Management

The pandemic accelerated proportionate checks, remote reviews and flexible reporting—changes that continue to benefit the sector.

• Shorter forms and faster triage became normal.
• Remote panels and e‑signatures proved reliable.
• Learning and trust were prioritised over bureaucracy.

What stayed

Efficiencies that still make sense.

• Proportionate diligence and payments.
• Flexible formats and assisted submissions.
• Rapid feedback and transparent updates.

Key takeaway: keep what reduced burden without harming assurance.

New expectations

Applicants and boards now expect clarity and speed.

• Clear timelines and accessible guidance.
• Real‑time dashboards over annual reports.
• Honest communication about uncertainty.

Key takeaway: Plinth supports these modern expectations.

Preparing for future shocks

Build resilience into processes.

• Portable data and remote‑ready tools.
• Scenario plans for surge volumes.
• Proportionate controls that can scale up/down.

Key takeaway: resilience is good operations, not just crisis mode.

FAQs

Did quality fall with faster decisions?

Not with good guardrails; many saw improved fairness.

Will in‑person panels return?

Hybrid works well; keep options open.

Can we keep short forms?

Yes—collect the minimum useful data.