The words “Research” and “Development” are often paired together as R&D, but they describe two distinctly different activities. While they share a close border, the objectives, mindsets, and value systems of those involved in each are unique. In this post, we explore why these two functions must be treated differently.
It is possible that one organization may be engaged in both, the research, and development activities. These would normally be treated as different functions. Product development may use some of the knowledge gained in research activity and may have close cooperation with research teams.
Research: The Quest for Understanding
The objective of research is to uncover the fundamental truths of the natural world. Scientists observe phenomena that most people take for granted—like Sir Isaac Newton asking why an apple falls down rather than go up.
- The Domain: The “Natural World” and the Universe.
- The Horizon: Research problems tend to be Infinite Horizon problems. There is rarely a “final” answer; the current peak of knowledge simply reveals a new valley to explore. Newton’s work on gravity in 1687 is still being refined by physicists today.
- The Funding: Because research is a quest for pure knowledge that may not yield an immediate profit, it is often publicly funded through government grants and taxpayer money.
- The Mindset: Success is measured by Truth and Objectivity.
Development: the Quest for Utility
While research uncovers truth, development applies that truth to solve specific human needs. The domain of Product Development is the “Artificial World.” It is about creating something that has never existed before or improving something that already does.
- The Domain: The “Artificial World”—solutions, products, and services.
- The Horizon: Product development is Finite and Time-Bound. A project must be completed within a reasonable window with a definite outcome. If success isn’t achieved within the allotted time and budget, the project is often terminated.
- The Funding: These activities are mostly commercially funded by agencies and companies expecting a financial return on their investment.
- The Mindset: Success is measured by Appropriateness and Customer Delight.
Research and Development Compared
To better understand how these two functions interact, we can compare them across several key dimensions:
| DIMENSION | RESEARCH | DEVELOPMENT |
|---|---|---|
| DOMAIN | Natural World | Artificial World |
| METHODS | Controlled Experiments, Analysis | Synthesis, Modeling, Pattern Forming |
| VALUES | Objectivity & Rationality | Practicality, Ingenuity & Empathy |
| CONCERN | Truth | Appropriateness (Utility) |
| PROBLEMS HORIZON | Infinite | Finite |
| FUNDING | Mostly Public | Commercial |
| CORE THINKING | Scientific Thinking | Design Thinking |
Summary and Key Takeaway
Research is about Discovery: It seeks to understand the “What” and “Why” of the universe.
Development is about Creation: It seeks to solve the “How” of human needs.
The Bridge: While they are distinct, they are highly complementary. Product development often uses the knowledge gained in research to turn a “scientific truth” into a “tangible solution.”
In my upcoming posts under the Concept to Concrete series, we will focus specifically on the “Development” side of this equation—how to navigate the finite, high-pressure world of creating products that delight customers.
Most of us lean naturally toward one side of the spectrum—either the infinite horizon of ‘Scientific Thinking’ or the practical synthesis of ‘Design Thinking.‘ Which mindset do you find more challenging to maintain when the pressure is on? Share your experience with the R&D divide in the comments below.