Research involves defining the reasons for the project's existence, obtaining specific information about MDT's via questionnaires and site inspections, and doing a cost benefit analysis. Application for criminal justice funding should be the first step in seeking to subsidize the purchase of a MDT system, since governments are interested in how to increase efficiency and reduce costs. In Texas, for instance group projects for the purpose of establishing a 'team' approach among area law enforcement agencies are highly encouraged, and project funding may be available for either individual or group requests. To design a total system, information must be collected from a reliable source, usually a local MDT vendor, who can provide the technical information needed. The next step, the gathering of product specifications and budgetary quotes from vendors, serves as the agency's 'notepad' for establishing a sound budgetary cost figure in the preliminary planning stages, and is separate from the actual bidding process. During the formal bidding process, the agency will prepare a request for information (RFI), and a request for proposal (RFP). Once the contract is awarded, system installation can immediately begin. Management and evaluation issues are also discussed. See NCJ-111355-111364.