A University of Leiden study on the potential use of quantitative, literature-based indicators as tools for monitoring research productivity and establishing research policy, based on the bibliographic productivity of two major faculties, is reported and discussed. (MSE)

The role of an economic development agency in promoting networking and communication among high-tech industries in one region of the Netherlands is described. (Author/MSE)

The Netherlands' experience with the Conditional Finance System, introduced in the universities in 1982 make explicit the distribution of research effort and allocate research resources on bases other than enrollments, is discussed. (MSE)

The recent development of Dutch research coordination agencies, the Science Shops, forms the context for a description of the relationship between university research and policy at Amsterdam University and the national trade union organization. Management tools such as project financing and other elements of this system are discussed. (MSE)

The Netherlands' use of an ad hoc interinstitutional committee of university board members during a period of retrenchment is described which resulted in a plan to close a number of university departments and to terminate many small and not very successful research programs. (MSE)

Performance indicators can be significant tools for the Dutch government to focus attention on institutional output, define shared goals more exactly, and improve accountability while allowing for increased institutional autonomy. (MSE)

The financial support system for scientific research in the Netherlands and University of Leiden are described. Methods for funding teaching and research separately are examined, and faculty response to these methods are discussed. The funding changes are intended to link funding more directly to institutional and national science policy. (MSE)