Research to Operations

(Abbreviated R2O.) The process of going from successful phases of investigations or research of a concept, a theory, a model, an algorithm, or a technology to the operational implementation

of one or more of these. Part of the process is often referred to as Research & Development (R&D).

For science and technology, the process can include going from basic research results, to applied research, to an advanced larger-scale demonstration, to operational testing, and finally to operational utilization. Phases may have milestones and performance criteria. Modifications may be needed to proceed beyond each milestone to the next phase. Not all phases are part of some R2O projects.

Examples include observing systems, both in situ and remote sensing; automatic data processing to convert electronic signals into sensible hydrometeorological elements such as temperature, humidity, wind velocity, and river flow; numerical models to forecast hydrometeorological conditions; and product generation to produce alphanumeric and graphic products to meet user needs for environmental information.

There is also a feedback process referred to as Operations to Research (O2R), which is designed to improve existing systems and serve as motivation for R&D for new systems.

These processes (R&D, R2O, and O2R) are carried out by laboratories in the academic communities, government, and private sector.

Term edited 23 November 2022.

The process of intensification of an atmospheric disturbance, most commonly applied to cyclones and anticyclones.

1. Regular markings on an instrument used to allow the reading of the measured quantity or setting.