Download DESCA model CA version 3.0 (with elucidation notes)
Download DESCA model CA version 3.0 (working document without elucidation notes)

Download Modifications / Amendments compared with DESCA 2.0

Please note: The DESCA model consortium agreement is specifically designed for FP7 collaborative projects under the Cooperation programme.

How to Use the DESCA Model and the different Options and Modules
Background Information 

How to Use the DESCA Model and the different Options and Modules

DESCA aims to provide, as far as possible, a single text which balances the interests of all types of project participants. However, DESCA recognises that different projects will have different objectives and that the interests of the partners may also differ. To accommodate such differences, the DESCA model CA offers:

• alternative modules for large projects and small projects
• an optional module for projects with a strong software focus
• options in the IPR section and finance section.

We recommend that you proceed as follows:

• Download and read carefully the DESCA model CA (with elucidation notes)

• Decide whether you have a Large Project or a Small Project

o Large projects tend to need a more complex governance structure. The DESCA Large Project module allows for a General Assembly and an Executive Board. (If you need a more complex governance structure with a third level, you may consult the old DESCA version 2.0 in our archive.)
o The DESCA Small Project module provides only a General Assembly of all project participants

• The IPR section offers various possibilities. Two options are provided for the clause on conditions for Access Rights to Foreground for Use :

o Option 1 provides for "fair and reasonable conditions"
o Option 2 provides for "royalty-free access"

The individual consortium members may negotiate any different preferences they may have.

• In the Finance Section two options are provided regarding the transfer of EC contribution:

o Option 1 provides for a security mechanism
o Option 2 provides for a forwarding of all Community funds without "undue delay"

• If your project has a strong software focus, you may add the module for Software which provides more detailed provisions on sub-licensing rights, open source code, etc.

• Download the DESCA version 3.0 working document (without elucidations)

Fine-tuning

DESCA aims to be user-friendly. To this end, the standard DESCA text has been drafted for “mainstream” projects and does not attempt to take account of all alternatives for a given situation. 

Once that you have selected the DESCA scenario which best corresponds to your type of project, you will need to fine-tune the text to the specific needs of your project and consortium. Fine-tuning requires careful consideration of critical issues and of internal policies. Expert advice might be sought on certain matters.

Background Information

After 3 years of experience with FP7 projects, the core group decided to review DESCA. A consultation on DESCA 2.0 took place in 2010. Further information on this consultation is available here. DESCA 3.0 was designed following this consultation process and taking into account recommendations from DESCA users and other FP7 stakeholders.

Modifications / Amendments compared with DESCA 2.0

All suggestions for modifications / amendments received were carefully examined by the DESCA Core Group. The group agreed on a number of amendments and modifications to the original DESCA 2.0 version.

Major changes include for example:

• Modifications in the governance structure for large projects:  deletion of sub-project committees.
• Modifications in the payment scheme: additional option for forwarding all funds without undue delay.
• Modification of the settlement of dispute clause: introduction of a step approach, including mediation.

You find an overview of all modifications and amendments here.