Measuring Success

Introduction

Measuring success in R&D refers to all actions taken to objectively evaluate the overall performance of R&D in order to ensure positive socio-economic return. The long-term success of an organisation is spelt out in  the vision and mission of the research bodies. The research bodies could be national research institutes (RI) and institutes of higher learning (IHL).

Organisation, through the top management, needs a vision in order to be successful, compete in the current competitive environment and its future direction. The vision is translated into documented clear policy, that is " strategic intent" to lead organisation through rough waters. Just like an individuals who grapples with "meanings" in order to make sense of his/her life, an organisation also requires policy in order  to survive in this turbulent and competitive business environment. An organisation policy should be focused, consistent and related to its current and perhaps future business. The organisation also requires written objectives to fulfil the policy envisioned by the top management, which must be measurable. Objecties are sets of measurable criteria in which performance of the organisation, department, subunits and individuals are being assessed and evaluated. For instance, gamma irradiation plant has the objective of having 90% of the product sent to the facility and is processed within three days of its receipt from the clients. The success of the various projects to meet their objectives would undoiubtedly resulted in success of the organisation.