Data Requirements for Assessing the Private and Social Returns to Strategic Research Partnerships: Analysis and Recommendations

Abstract

Existing studies of Strategic Research Partnerships (SRPs) suffer from data limitations that preclude an accurate assessment of the private and social returns to these activities. To address these limitations in a cost-efficient manner, statistical agencies should focus their data collection effort on public-private SRPs and measures of output and performance , including the role of SRPs in fostering technological diffusion and the creation of new products, firms, and industries. The collection of similar information from (observationally equivalent) firms not engaged in SRPs, including firms that applied for public funds and did not receive them, would also greatly improve our ability to evaluate government R&D programs. Government agencies should also partner with private organizations that have compiled data on SRPs and facilitate linkages between existing governments' datasets on SRPs and economic performance. The use of qualitative data should also be encouraged.