Evaluating a large-scale research and development program in Japan: Methods, findings and insights

This paper reviews Japan's efforts to introduce a higher level of performance measurement and evaluation into its science and technology policies. A case study of an external evaluation of a major Japanese advanced research and development program is then presented. This case offers insights into the complexities of conducting formal policy and program evaluations in Japan. In the concluding part of the paper, we draw on the experience gained from this case to offer some broader observations and reflections on the development of evaluation systems in Japan.