Design requirements such as functional specialization, balance among functions and performers, continuity in policies, tasks, and personnel excellence or quality control goal setting, and recognition of environmental constraints and potential constituencies that apply to a national educational R & D system are discussed. (Author/AM)

Proposes the need for a design competition system (DCS) in federally funded educational research and development and discusses the key issues that a DCS must address in methodology. Also addresses the high cost of using a DCS and whether such costs can be justified. Concludes that a DCS is justified and necessary. (GR)