Viewpoint: Planning research and the planner's needs

Abstract

Research, or Research and Development (R&D), as commonly reported, is often considered to be insufficient, in hoth quantity and relevance (to South African requirements). Attempts at measurement of the overall research quantum in this country show a difference of alarming proportions between research efforts here and those of other countries that address this issue. There are clearly problems involved in drawing comparisons. The R&D effort is notoriously difficult to measure. (Phillips, 1967) For example, much of the technology or research in use is "silently" imported through local subsi­diaries. The validity of comparison be­tween this country and the "developed nation bloc" may also be queped, particu­larly in view of the growing concern with appropriate, or intermediate technology (Schumaker, 1973).