A program of research on coupling relations in research and development

As part of a continuing program of studies of R&D, one area for field research has been identified that is concerned with coupling the flow of ideas about new materials, products, and processes from the laboratory through the steps to utilization. The various complex communication phenomena involved — liaison, interface, coupling, technology transfer (LINCOTT) — are treated in a series of eleven studies. Each has a unique focus and set of variables. They cover a variety of environments — commerical and military laboratories, U. S. firms overseas, and R&D in developing countries. But all the studies share the common goal of increasing understanding of communication and information exchange between functionally related science, engineering, production, and management groups, with the eventual goal of providing tested propositions for improved organizational design.