Characteristics of R&D management which influence information needs

The information needs of mid- and upper-level R&D managers are identified by reviewing their environment, functions, and communication patterns from an information systems perspective. The information problems in R&D, such as inability to respond rapidly and failure of analytical support methods, are seen as symptoms of the mismatch of information needs and the information systems employed. The new technology of decision support systems is discussed as the ideal solution approach to R&D information management and decision-making. A comprehensive list of candidate data bases is provided.