Book excerpt: The present environment for research and development in business can be characterized in two simple words: inconsistent horizons. As the rapid development of technology and the number of new scientific discoveries have led to tremendous change, businesses have modified their entire corporate structure, downsizing, and operating in a constant state of flux. This environment with its inconsistency makes R&D a risky venture. Total Quality in Research and Development looks at these problems and presents models, systems, and paradigms that offer a systematic improvement process for businesses and their management. The unparalleled challenge faced by those working in R&D functions is examined, offering beneficial approaches for implementing total quality improvement efforts. This book shows how TQ promotes rather than stifles inventiveness, ingenuity, and individual accomplishment. Through collaborative efforts, both team and individual performance initiates and maintains clear objectives as well as produces the optimal environment for the prospering of research. The total quality systems presented here are not just a system, method, or philosophy, but rather a working model for daily operations. This valuable and practical working model examines actual daily work practices, guideposts and measurements for success, and management practices that stress creativity and group achievements that support company goals.