Information flow in an industrial research laboratory — A case study

The flow of information to and within an industrial bioscience research laboratory has been studied through use of questionnaires and interviews. The scope of the study and difficulties encountered are described. Sources of ideas for product and procedural innovations, reading in scientific and technical literature, and the flow of information between departments are reported and related to published reports of similar studies. The possible impact of geographic and demographic factors and the effects of the unique mix of science and technology on research organizations are discussed.