Types of Research

Research is the creation of new knowledge. It can be categorized into four distinct types: Basic, Strategic, Applied & Experimental Development.

Pure basic research is experimental and theoretical work undertaken to acquire new knowledge without looking for long-term benefits other than the advancement of knowledge. Basic, or blue-sky research, is the pursuit of new knowledge without any assumptions about what it might lead to – essentially knowledge for its own sake. Strategic basic research is experimental and theoretical work undertaken to acquire new knowledge directed into specified broad areas in the expectation of useful discoveries. It provides the broad base of knowledge necessary for the solution of recognized practical problems.

Strategic research is the pursuit of new knowledge which might, in principle, have a practical application but without a precise view of the timescale or nature of the application. Applied research is knowledge which is developed with a specific objective in mind, particularly the conversion of existing knowledge into products, processes and technologies.

Applied research is original work undertaken primarily to acquire new knowledge with a specific application in view. It is undertaken either to determine possible uses for the findings of basic research or to determine new ways of achieving some specific and predetermined objectives. Applied research may be the stage in which collaboration with industry is most likely, but basic and strategic research creates pools of expertise and knowledge which benefit in many ways. Not only do breakthroughs with commercial potential first emerge from these types of research, but also the critical mass of knowledge needed to develop these breakthroughs into a marketable product is created here.

Experimental development is systematic work, using existing knowledge gained from research or practical experience, that 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.