The future of research and technology organizations in Europe
The European Commission, in the framework of its SPRINT programme, has published a report entitled "The future of research and technology organizations" which presents the proceedings of a conference that took place in Brussels on 16-17 November 1994. Supporting the technological development of European industry in general and assisting the technological upgrading of the less-favoured European regions are the key functions of research and technological organizations (RTOs). The basic objective of the conference was to review the function of RTOs, assess the changes which are taking place and to identify the most appropriate response strategies. The conference was also intended to provide a framework for the exchange of information and to define the role of RTOs, specifically in the process of technology transfer and innovation in response to the needs of SMEs in Europe.