So you think you may have a better process: How can you define the value?

This perspectives article is intended to help scientists, particularly in catalysis, understand how to assess the value and impact of research with potential, practical value. These remarks are also offered to help scientists develop added value for new discoveries in catalysis. Authors are encouraged to seek input about process or product improvements before making sweeping statements about the impact or implications of the work. At the same time, the intent is not to contrast fundamental or applied catalysis, but to provide the reader with a perspective and resources for assigning value to their work. Specific suggestions are offered on how to begin to gather such expert information and use that to build or guide one's further research. Topics include gathering cost information, looking at the total process, including energy assessments, life cycle assessments, and sensitivity analyses. Brief examples using the H2, NH3, and CO2 markets are given.

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► This perspectives article provides tools to assess the value and impact of applied research.
► Topics include energy assessments, life cycle assessments, and sensitivity analyses.
► Several specific suggestions are offered on how to gather such expert information.