Decision-oriented inquiries emanate from a specific need for information and are conducted under a number of constraints. Conclusion-oriented research originates with the researcher and can be pursued in ways decided on by the researcher. Two examples of decision-oriented evaluation studies conducted by school districts and the relationships between these studies and conclusion-oriented work are given to illustrate the kinds of contributions that conclusion-oriented investigations can make to program evaluations conducted at the local level. The products of conclusion-oriented work can best be incorporated into school-based evaluation efforts through better communication by conclusion-oriented researchers and some collaborative relationships between the two groups of researchers. The National Institute of Education (NIE) can assist in improving the exchange of information by studies of the communication problem, and building communication networks. (MLF)