This research has aimed at studying the satisfaction of the external research fund sources with
Suranaree University of Technology (SUT); SUT’s researchers and SUT’s research works. The samples
were personnel working for 27 organizations which provided research funds for SUT during the fiscal
years 2003-2006. The data were obtained through survey and interviews. The descriptive statistics
including frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation were used. The data were also reported
qualitatively.
The results reveal regarding the researchers, the fund providers reported that the researchers were
capable of researching, creating new body of knowledge with new techniques. Besides, the researchers
were determined, responsible and punctual. However, it was found that very few researchers did not have
experiences directly related to their research projects, project management, or the point of the research
project including the late submission of the research report.
With regard to the research works, the fund providers reported that the research works were of
high quality regarding the research methodology. They were also updated. The research works were of
little values regarding developing the organizations, solving the managerial and personnel problems;
creating value-added; developing society or proposing the national policies; improving academic strength
or publicizing the organizations. However, it was found that very few sophisticated research
methodologies were employed. There were very few projects collaborating with local agencies. Some
researchers had problems with writing research reports with some hidden agendas.
The overall satisfaction of the fund providers was at the medium level. The satisfaction with the
University and SUT’s researchers was at the high level while with the research works was at the medium
level.