1297.0 - Australian and New Zealand Standard Research Classification (ANZSRC), 2008  
ARCHIVED ISSUE Released at 11:30 AM (CANBERRA TIME) 31/03/2008   
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CHAPTER 2 TYPE OF ACTIVITY

Four types of activity applicable to R&D are recognised in this classification:

  • Pure basic research
  • Strategic basic research
  • Applied research
  • 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.


Strategic basic research is experimental and theoretical work undertaken to acquire new knowledge directed into specified broad areas in the expectation of practical discoveries. It provides the broad base of knowledge necessary for the solution of recognised practical problems.


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.


Experimental development is systematic work, using existing knowledge gained from research or practical experience, which is directed to producing new materials, products, devices, policies, behaviours or outlooks; to installing new processes, systems and services; or to improving substantially those already produced or installed.



GUIDELINES FOR CLASSIFYING R&D BY TYPE OF ACTIVITY



Where possible, a research project or research program should be allocated to a single type of activity. If the project or program is large and involves multiple types of activity, then each relevant activity category should be attributed a proportion of resources relative to the project’s or research program’s total R&D expenditure.