EXPERIENCE AT THE TRANSPORT AND ROAD RESEARCH LABORATORY

This introductory note raised a series of propositions for discussion regarding the formulation and management of R&D programmes. It is based on experiences in executing the research programme of the Department of Transport (DTp) at and from the Transport and Road Research Laboratory (TRRL) but is intended to be read and discussed in a general way. The hope is that consideration of these issues will in effect address the central question posed to the Seminar.

1. Formulating a research programme requires a dialogue between those requesting the research and those providing it.

It is re-assuring to see that by arranging the framework for this discussion as they have, the organisers recognise that research programme definition should involve research managers. A research requirement having been identified the cutomer has to specify what he wants as output and when; the contractor has to advise on what may be possible, on what timescale and at what resources consumption. Jointly they must, through iterative discussions, refine a series of research proposals and agree, on a priority basis, the best package of projects to maximise output from available resources.