Industrial Servicing and Technology:

New Zealand industries fall into two categories; the few which are entirely self-dependent, and those which rely on technical assistance from overseas companies with which they are associated. Both types of industry require trained scientists, the former to carry out their research and development work on which the progress of the industry is entirely dependent, the latter to adapt overseas technology to local conditions and materials and to solve problems arising in their manufacturing departments. Firms of both types often have Research and Development Laboratories and they may also employ scientists in their Production Departments.

Research Laboratories: The scientist in a Research Laboratory may be primarily concerned with attempting to solve the problems arising in the firm's manufacturing processes. Often, a rapid solution is essential, although long range research projects can arise from these investigations. These may ultimately lead to changes in manufacturing processes or to the development of new products.

Development Laboratories: These laboratories are primarily concerned with improvements in manufacturing plant and methods. The accent will be on the application of existing knowledge. Development laboratories often operate a pilot plant in order to bridge the gap between the Research Laboratory and the Production Department.

Control Laboratories: Control Laboratories are directly associated with the manufacturing operations of the organisation. They carry out routine control and much of this may depend on the use of instruments.

Frequently, in small companies, the three types of laboratory may be combined.

Production Departments: There is an increasing trend for the employment of trained scientists in the Production Departments, particularly when the type of production is such that a thorough knowledge of scientific principles is advantageous. It is not uncommon to fill such posts with men who have spent some time in the Research and Development Departments. Such men are often promoted to senior executive positions.