Purposes and functions of regional research and development (R&D) services sponsored by the National Institute of Education (NIE) are described, based on a task force's assessment of R&D services provided by regional laboratories. The historical context of the following questions are addressed: whether the conduct of R&D constitutes a service, or whether regional R&D services focuses on other functions (e.g., needs assessment, dissemination) related to R&D. Attention is also directed to the changing organizational context in which R&D is performed, the policy context, the establishment of the new Department of Education, progress in the field of dissemination and utilization, and leadership activities sponsored by the Program on Dissemination and Improvement of Practice. The essential features of regional laboratories as a special kind of institution and the special R&D services that such institutions provide are considered. It is suggested that these laboratories are in a special position to undertake the regional needs assessment function and to broker the mobilization of resources within a region to meet those needs. They also provide leadership for a coordinated dissemination and utilization system and they work for consensus among the components of the educational community in their region. (SW)