The ex ante analysis is aimed at identifying priorities and objectives for simplification that are aligned with the targets set in the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. It also involves qualitative and quantitative analysis and monitoring of the implementation status of reforms and simplification interventions, including actions for standardizing forms and their corresponding digital management, with a focus on specific stakeholder categories (citizens and businesses).

Support for the preparation of evaluation activities and the Evaluation Plan for the 2021-2027 FESR and FSE+ Programme, covering the various methodological and operational aspects of evaluation in compliance with regulatory guidelines and the content suggested by the European Commission. Additionally, the service provides technical and organizational support for defining a new model of partnership relations in the 2021-2027 programming period.

The aim of the study is to evaluate the administrative costs and burdens associated with the funds under the Common Provisions Regulation, reviewing previously established baselines where applicable and setting new ones where necessary. This is to assess whether previous estimates of administrative costs and cost savings have materialized and to contribute to the preparation of new proposals and options for post-2027 funds. The study also aims to identify and quantify the administrative burdens and costs arising from additional national or regional practices that go beyond the EU legislative framework for the funds under the Common Provisions Regulation (overregulation).

The study has evaluated the entire ESF+, including the component managed under shared management and the component related to employment and social innovation (the "EaSI section") implemented under direct and indirect management. It covered the programming period from the entry into force of the ESF+ Regulation until the end of 2023, including both the programming phase and the initial implementation phase in the 27 Member States.

The aim of the study is to assess the impact of EU initiatives and policies on cohesion, defined as the extent of regional and social disparities within the EU, during the 2014-2020 period. The study will also analyze the funds provided under regional state aid, with particular attention to the amounts of aid channeled to EU regions under this scheme to improve regional development.