Which aspect is critical in the evaluation of proposals submitted to NSF?

The focus on "impact and alignment with strategic goals" is fundamental in evaluating proposals submitted to the NSF because the organization aims to support projects that not only advance scientific knowledge but also align with broader national and strategic priorities. Proposals are assessed based on how they contribute to significant advancements in research, education, and innovation. This alignment ensures that the funded projects can lead to tangible benefits for society and help in addressing critical challenges in various fields.

Impact refers to the potential for the proposed research to affect or contribute positively to the scientific community and society at large. Recognizing this importance facilitates choosing projects that promise to yield meaningful results rather than those that may merely be technically sound but lack broader significance.

Moreover, strategic alignment ensures that the funded projects support NSF's mission and fit within its current priorities and funding strategies, which can change over time based on societal needs, technological advancements, and research trends. Thus, the emphasis on impact and alignment ensures that resources are allocated efficiently toward projects that are most likely to yield beneficial outcomes.

In contrast, while factors like technical complexity, international collaboration, and past recommendations play roles in evaluation, they do not carry the overarching importance that impact and strategic alignment do in the decision-making process for funding proposals.