This study concerns the types of influence exerted by staff individuals and units and nonstaff individuals and units in the activities of regional economic and social development organizations. Four different social units, each involving different theoretical considerations, are involved in the analysis. These four social units are: social action situations, personalities, organizations, and regions. The position and role specifications of staff and lay leaders are delineated. Other areas of discussion are the decision making processes, the power and influence processes, the tension management processes, the involvement and motivation processes, and the goal attainment processes in relation to various development goals. (DB)