Conceptual framework for studying the links between agricultural research and technology transfer in developing countries

This paper presents a conceptual framework to help leaders of research and extension institutions identify (and to some extent control) the mechanisms which can effect the desired linkages and the contextual factors which influence these mechanisms. Brief opening sections define the key concepts of the framework and the criteria for successful linkages. The bulk of the report consists of analyses of the political, technical, and institutional factors affecting research-extension linkages. A final summary section recommends that research and extension managers: (1) pay special attention to technology consolidation and production; (2) recognize that already established technologies require different links than technologies still in the process of development; (3) take maximum advantage of their control over personnel policies; (4) address problems arising from the differences between researchers and extensionists in regard to training, experience, status, and physical location; (5) employ a variety of organizational groupings and linkage mechanisms; (6) realize that high levels of integration can be achieved by interdependence, domain correspondence, ideological consensus, competence, and the capacity to deliver on agreements.