MEASURING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF A RESEARCH PROGRAM
The purpose of this paper is to present various traditional techniques used to measure the effectiveness of a research program and to identify steps that can be used to improve its effectiveness. There is considerable variation in how the effectiveness of a research program is rated depending on the subjective point of view of the individual rater. Some of the methods used include benefit/cost, reduced accidents, lives saved, and improved aesthetics with benefits generally exceeding costs by a ratio of nine to one. Some steps identified for improving the effectiveness include (a) agreement on the need for the research and a definition of the problem by all concerned, (b) identification of the wants of administration, (c) literature search for a possible existing solution that can be used, (d) redefinition of the problem, (e) prioritization of research needs, (f) conduct of research in a proper manner with guidance from an advisory panel, (g) involvement of potential users, (h) writing the report in the language of the user, and (i) implementation in a timely manner. The importance of a well-organized program that embodies good management concepts is stressed as the means of providing maximum benefits of research through proper and timely implementation. (Author)
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Availability:
- Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/isbn/0309029937
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Supplemental Notes:
- Publication of this paper sponsored by Committee on Conduct of Research. Distribution, posting, or copying of this PDF is strictly prohibited without written permission of the Transportation Research Board of the National Academy of Sciences. Unless otherwise indicated, all materials in this PDF are copyrighted by the National Academy of Sciences. Copyright © National Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved.
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Authors:
- Peterson, Dale E
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Conference:
- 58th Annual Meeting of the Transportation Research Board
- Location: Washington District of Columbia, United States
- Date: 1979-1-15 to 1979-1-19
- Publication Date: 1979
Media Info
- Media Type: Print
- Pagination: pp 22-24
- Monograph Title: Technology Transfer, the Research Process, and Creating a Productive Environment
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Serial:
- Transportation Research Record
- Issue Number: 738
- Publisher: Transportation Research Board
- ISSN: 0361-1981
Subject/Index Terms
- TRT Terms: Benefit cost analysis; Implementation; Measurement; Measures of effectiveness; Research; Transportation
- Uncontrolled Terms: Effectiveness
- Old TRIS Terms: Transportation research
- Subject Areas: Administration and Management; Research; Transportation (General);
Filing Info
- Accession Number: 00315341
- Record Type: Publication
- ISBN: 0309029937
- Files: TRIS, TRB
- Created Date: Sep 16 1980 12:00AM