Definition

Research and development (R D) comprise creative work undertaken on a systematic basis in order to increase the stock of knowledge (including knowledge of man, culture and society) and the use of this knowledge to devise new applications. R D covers three activities: basic research, applied research, and experimental development. Basic research is experimental or theoretical work undertaken primarily to acquire new knowledge of the underlying foundation of phenomena and observable facts, without any particular application or use in view. Applied research is also original investigation undertaken in order to acquire new knowledge; it is, however, directed primarily towards a specific practical aim or objective. Experimental development is systematic work, drawing on existing knowledge gained from research and/or practical experience, which is directed to producing new materials, products or devices, to installing new processes, systems and services, or to improving substantially those already produced or installed.

The main aggregate used for international comparisons is gross domestic expenditure on R D (GERD). This consists of the total expenditure (current and capital) on R D by all resident companies, research institutes, university and government laboratories, etc. It excludes R D expenditures financed by domestic firms but performed abroad. GERD is here expressed as a share of GDP.

For more statistics on economic, environmental and social issues visit online the OECD Factbook 2010.