The orientation, interaction, and personal and social characteristics of an area development leadership group in Iowa were analyzed with the aim of helping plan educational efforts for the Extension Service. Objectives were to determine the extent of communication of selected social system elements by the state staff to the leadership group; perceptions of leadership members' role; members' attitudes and opinions on institutional changes and on the effect the group would have on the outcome of the activity; the systematic linkage represented by members; and member characteristics as compared with those of power actors in other Iowa studies. Knowledge of stated goals and objectives and area socioeconomic conditions, views on leadership group roles, and beliefs about institutional changes and the impact of the leadership group were similar for the area group and state staff members. Influence was significantly related to group members' organizational participation and their contacts throughout the area. (author/ly)