Fields of research and development (FORD)

Definition

The fields of research and development (FORD) classification is used to classify R&D units and resources by fields of enquiry, namely, broad knowledge domains based primarily on the content of the R&D subject matter.
The main fields of R&D are:
• Natural sciences
• Engineering and technology
• Medical and health sciences
• Agricultural and veterinary sciences
• Social sciences
• Humanities and the arts.

Data source

R&D surveys.

Source definition

OECD (2015), Frascati Manual 2015: Guidelines for Collecting and Reporting Data on Research and Experimental Development.

Purpose

To break down R&D expenditure and personnel by fields of research and development.