Research and Development Services

Research and development services perform original investigation to gain new knowledge (research) and/or apply research findings to create or improve products and processes (development). They are used in every discipline and every industry to improve production processes, observation and recording methods, and to provide insight into new strategies for problem-solving. Often, research and development services are known by the acronym R&D.

Research and development services can be used in both the public and private sectors to analyze and address a variety of technological, economic, social, and global issues. Research and development services in the technology marketplace typically include product development research and prototyping, taking concepts from the drawing stage through to samples of the physical product. Medical and pharmaceutical companies use research and development services to develop new devices and medications. Typically, a research and development laboratory starts with a basic scientific concept, conducts translational research to gather more information, and then tests several theories through clinical studies or trials. Pharmaceutical research and development services analyze new chemicals or natural compounds, developing new manufacturing processes and testing protocols. They also work with government agencies or business partners to approve and market new products.

Many large scientific or technological organizations have internal departments that offer research and development services. These organizations may also have a number of researchers, developers, and designers on staff. For example, a company that makes printed circuit boards (PCBs) may have a board designer working on better circuit layouts, a materials researcher studying the use of new compounds in the making of chips, and a software developer programming embedded applications. Small businesses or start-up companies may hire a contract research organization (CRO) to provide the necessary support and expertise to develop new products or processes. Contract research organizations provide data management services, technology transfer and commercialization expertise, and global studies to companies interested in expanding into international markets.

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