| Aspects of scientific research/monitoring process: | Contractual Projects | Contributory Projects: | Collaborative Projects: | Co-Created Projects: | Collegial Projects |
| Choose or define question(s) for study | X | X | X | ||
| Gather information and resources | (X) | X | X | ||
| Develop explanations (hypotheses) | X | X | |||
| Design data collection methodologies | (X) | X | X | ||
| Collect samples and/or record data | X | X | X | X | |
| Analyze samples | X | X | X | ||
| Analyze data | (X) | X | X | X | |
| Interpret data and draw conclusions | (X) | (X) | X | X | |
| Disseminate conclusions/translate results into action | (X) | (X) | (X) | X | X |
| Discuss results and ask new questions | X | X | X | ||