Abstract:

Introduction:
There is a consensus about the impossibility of applying the same evaluation and criterion that is used in basic research in applied research and technological development (AR+TD). Then, it is necessary to design a new system of evaluation and recognition of AR+TD activities.

Methodology:
In a series of meetings with experts the Ministry of Science, Technology and Productive Innovation of Argentina designed a new system of evaluation and criteria for AR+TD activities

Results:
The Ministry of Science, Technology and Productive Innovation of Argentina managed to produce the necessary agreements among experts and defined a new system of evaluation and recognition of the activities of IA+DT, complementary to basic investigation.
This system considers Social and Technological Development Project “PDTS” as the unit of work of IA+DT activities. It is defined, incorporating the concept of “local innovation” and considering its contribution to the solution of problems arousing from the needs or society demands, in the areas of politics, market, territory, culture or social structure.
When the model was agreed, the Ministry created four accreditation thematic commissions that define and standarize the criteria that is used to validate PDTS. It also created the PDTS National Bank that acts as a public repository for the accredited projects.
Characteristics of PDTS:
Firstly, a PDTS must be a Project aimed to solve a practical problem or satisfy a concrete need or demand. There must be a definite need that will be satisfied with the development of technology.
In second place, that demand should be justified and it must take place in local, regional or national areas. The demand must be justified with the needs of the country.
Another fundamental aspect is that the PDTS must incorporate cognitive innovation in its development. Scientific knowledge must be used and other ideas must be developed to carry out the Project. The Project is not the mere implementation of existing knowledge, as if it was a known factory procedure. The PDTS implies the development of knowledge and its application in the development of the Project.
The criteria for the accreditation of a PDTS:
The first criterion is the one of local innovation or originality. It implies that the Project generates results or solutions that are considered original or innovative in local areas, even though in other countries there might be similar solutions to similar problems.
The second criterion is related to the contribution that the Project can make to the development of society. The impact should be evaluated in political, economic and social terms to recognize the project as of national concern.
A Pertinence Criterion is also applied and it aims to ensure that the project reaches the desired objectives.
Finally, a Demand Criterion should be verified. It guarantees that the Project does not pursue results only for the mere scientific curiosity but it has agents that have requested a solution to a specific problem and they have agreed to adopt the results.

Benefits and Conclusions:
Argentina is a country that needs and is looking for its development. This official system allows universities to develop technology that solves the problems of the country, the region and its citizens.
This system constitutes a historical precedent in the management of Science and Technology in Latin America and promotes a link between the University and society.

Keywords:

Technological Development, Science and Technology, Social and Technological Development Project.