The fact that innovative developments create additional opportunities for crime or change existing ones poses a continuing challenge for forensic scientists. In addition to compiling reports for courts, the primary task of forensic scientists is to support police investigations. Forensic scientists must be familiar with police investigations and know how criminals operate. They must orient themselves toward basic problems of police officers and, in some cases, provide advice at crime scenes. This requires adequate training and knowledge of innovative research projects to keep up-to-date in the forensic science field. The entire question of forensic science research and development is complex, particularly with regard to technical research projects, international cooperation, information systems, resource constraints, and legal issues. An overall strategy for managing forensic science work is needed that focuses on quality management and that recognizes how technological developments impact forensic science. 28 footnotes