Title: Productivity and performance measurement in R&D

Authors: Alan Stainer, Bill Nixon

Addresses: Middlesex University, Bounds Green Road, London N17 2NQ, UK. University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 4HN, UK

Abstract: The paper discusses the challenges facing productivity and performance measurement in research and development (R&D). Traditional methods are generally not appropriate because of the nature of the output which is long-term and often intangible. R&D can be related to three types of pertinent measures which are the process, the output and the pay-off. Capability and latency are also illustrated as the strategic link between productivity and performance. Total productivity, supported by a family of partial yardsticks, is advocated as the most effective means of control. Benchmarking is shown as significant and important in the pursuit of improved R&D management. It is stressed that though measurement may be difficult it is vital for the success of R&D strategic planning.

Keywords: R&D; productivity; performance measurement; benchmarking; strategy; innovation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTM.1997.001691

International Journal of Technology Management, 1997 Vol.13 No.5/6, pp.486-496

Published online: 17 Aug 2003 *

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