The expanding world of R&D

How various countries and companies are attempting to maintain their competitive positions in an increasingly Japanese-dominated climate is examined. The role of government in supporting research, technology, and their applications (which varies widely among countries) is discussed. Unlike the US, other countries gear their roles to helping their citizens gain advantage in the commercial marketplace. In Japan, emphasis is on transferring ideas to the marketplace; efforts by companies are coordinated by a variety of organizations led by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry. A cornerstone of R&D efforts in the European Community (EC) is the European Strategic Program for Research and Development in Information Technology (ESPRIT). As of the end of 1989, more than 150 ESPRIT projects contributed directly to new products or services; nearly 120 resulted in tools and methods used outside the ESPRIT community; and more than 40 contributed to international standards. Research spending by major corporations is recounted, with big spenders being found in every part of the world. Ways to assess a country´s commitment to R&D are described, and the growing role of international cooperation is addressed.<>