Research and Technology Institutes (RTIs) are today facing the challen
ges of restructuring, New demands are being placed upon them in an inc
reasingly uncertain financial and innovation environment. This paper,
which is based upon a review of nine of the most successful RTIs in Eu
rope, North America and East Asia, provides a framework for assessing
RTIs and understanding how RTIs need to function to meet user needs wi
thin the context of national systems of innovation, The paper suggests
some simple tools for identifying and classifying user needs as well
as for assessing the strengths and weaknesses of RTIs, It is argued th
at this type of analysis is a prerequisite for the strategic planning
and management of such institutes. The paper points out some of the op
erational aspects of RTI management where improvement opportunities ar
e often possible.