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Current Condition of Research Evaluation Efforts

* In August, 1997, the Prime Minister issued general guidelines for research evaluation systems. The guidelines clarify the various categories of assessment necessary for the fair implementation of research evaluations.

* Based on the guidelines issued by the Prime Minister, each ministry and agency is currently developing their own guidelines and developing and amending categories and items for assessments carried out at research and development institutions. From now on, we must improve the actual substance of the evaluations established under this system.

Research evaluations in this era of change

* Many researchers indicated creativity and the importance of learning and contribution to science as well as appropriate and flexible response to economic and social needs such as by creation of new industries as desired perspectives for evaluation of research and development topics of the government ( Figure 25 ). Researchers also recognize the importance of assessments by outside organizations ( Figure 26 ).

Figure 25 Desired perspective for the evaluation of research and development topics at the national level

Figure 26 Desired structure of evaluation systems for research topics

* Progress has been made in research and in research objectives and planning, but we must continue to evaluate whether or not superior research results leading to change and response to society's needs are being created.

* Adopting new perspectives on research and the ideal structure of research management will encourage and support researchers, and research and development will become more dynamic. In addition, flexible research evaluations that reflect the special characteristics of research and development are necessary in order that dull, unvaried evaluations do not result.