Management of Research Projects in the Historic Environment (MoRPHE) is a set of free guidelines covering the management of all historic environment research and 'research and development' (R&D) projects. MoRPHE provides a framework of defined roles, procedures, stages, terms, and key documents to assist the management of projects in our sector.
The guidelines can be downloaded from this page . The 'Project Managers Guide' gives general advice on the management of all types of research and R&D projects. The Project Planning Notes provide guidance on particular types of document, while Technical guides provide more in depth information on related topics.
Training in using MoRPHE
English Heritage provides a free distance-learning training course for those wishing to use MoRPHE. The course materials are sent by post, so you can work through them at your own pace. The course will familiarise you with the basics of MoRPHE, including the terminology, the staged approach and the roles of those working in a project. The course pack includes a free printed copy of the 'MoRPHE Project Managers Guide'. It is suitable for all staff with a connection with projects in all parts of the sector. Enquiries from those working on commercial, academic, local or national government and voluntary-sector projects are all welcome.
"I consolidated existing knowledge, learnt loads more and have an excellent reference guide to help me in the future." (A previous course participant).
To get a distance learning course pack please download the course form (see 'Related Documents'). For general enquiries email MoRPHE@english-heritage.org.uk
Frequently asked questions
Is MoRPHE relevant to me?
It is suitable for all those with a connection with research and R&D projects in all parts of the sector. Enquiries from those working on commercial, academic, local or national government and voluntary-sector projects are all welcome.
Do I need to use MoRPHE for my project?
If you are applying for funding from English Heritage for a research or R&D project then yes, use of MoRPHE is a requirement. For other researchers we encourage its use and provide it as a service to help join up approaches to managing projects across the sector.
There may be a specific Project Planning Note covering your sort of project. Check the links from this page. Others are under development. Suggestions for additional Project Planning Notes are welcome. Send these to MoRPHE@english-heritage.org.uk
Do I have to take a course to get research funding from English Heritage?
No. The use of MoRPHE may be a requirement, but the course is simply a free service to assist you.
Does MoRPHE replace MAP2?
Yes. The MoRPHE Project Managers Guide, plus Project Planning Note 3 covering archaeological excavation has now replaced use of MAP2 for all English Heritage archaeological excavation projects. A specific fact sheet illustrating the differences between MoRPHE and MAP2 is available (see links).
