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Blue Waters Annual Report 2019 book

Frequently Asked Questions

I can't find the template that was sent to me via email. Where can I get it?

A semi-populated template was sent via email, here is a blank template that you can populate and submit.


Why are there word limits?

We have word limits because in a print document, there is only so much space. Each team is allotted two pages in the Annual Report book, which amounts to about 800-1000 words, depending on image size and number.


How should I format publications and references?

Both references and publications should use IEEE citation style. The IEEE reference guide is available online.


Why do I need to use the Citation Style Guide?

We want to make sure we can fully cite any references or publications so it is easy for readers to track them down. Standardizing the format makes sure we get all that information and that the reader knows where to find each piece.


Why do images need to be so big?

Ideally images should be 300 dpi (dots per inch) and at least 2,625 pixels wide; however 300 dpi quality resolution is more important than width. Color images are encouraged.


Why do I need to reference images in the research summary?

If you reference the image within your text, it ties the image to your research better and makes the entire document more cohesive.


How do I submit my Research Summary?

Click here to submit your 2019 Blue Waters annual report. The annual report will again be distributed to NSF, users, and a variety of other Blue Waters stakeholders.


What's the difference between the book and the annual report I send to NSF?

The Blue Waters Project Office does not receive the annual report you send to NSF. The structure of the research summaries for the book is somewhat different than that of the NSF annual reports; the summary for the book is likely shorter and a more flowing narrative. In addition, the book is aimed at a wider audience (detailed in the next question).


Who receives this book?

We send the book to Blue Waters partners and users, leadership at the National Science Foundation, Cray and other vendors associated with Blue Waters, individuals at other funding agencies (DoE, NIH etc.), Blue Waters staff, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign administrators, and other people related to the HPC industry like leaders at national labs and media contacts.


Who should I contact with questions about the book or my submission?

Please contact bwbook@ncsa.illinois.edu with any questions.