Holistic Framework for Assessing EU Security Research Uptake

This document is a white paper that presents a holistic framework designed to enhance the assessment of the uptake potential of EU-funded security research and innovation project results. The Technology Readiness Level (TRL) has been utilized since 2014 within the EU as a metric for evaluating the maturity of these projects. However, the current TRL method has limitations, particularly in explaining the low adoption rates of outcomes from these projects. The proposed framework introduces additional Readiness Levels (RLs) including Societal RL, Security RL, Legal, Privacy and Ethical RL, Integration RL, Commercialisation RL, and Manufacturing RL. This comprehensive approach aims to provide a more complete evaluation of security projects, addressing the challenges of the 'valley of death' between research outcomes and their adoption. The paper outlines the design considerations for this framework and aims to support policymakers, practitioners, and investors in improving the uptake of innovations derived from EU-funded research.