Ibero-American Network of Science and Technology Indicators (RICYT)

Abstract

This paper presents the experience of the Ibero-American Network on Science and Technology Indicators (RICYT) with an original strategy for producing S&T indicators on a regional scale. This strategy has proved adequate to cope with the complexities and heterogeneity of Latin American countries. Furthermore, it allows data comparability. In terms of the difficulties posed in achieving a balance between the involvement in processes requiring international comparability and the need to take into account the specific traits of each country, the RICYT's strategy seems to be leading to fruitful results. The following hypothesis is advanced: the re-emergence of the issue of indicators in Latin America and the constitution of the RICYT imply an unusual adjustment of technical and political rationalities, in which an attempt to bridge the gap between politics and management may also be seen. Copyright , Beech Tree Publishing.