A descriptive and analytical study was made of the process of planning, programming, and evaluation of technological projects and programs as carried out by 86 offices within federal executive agencies. The focus is on the extent to which techniques of technology assessment are used, based on interviews with 115 officials. Ninety-seven illustrative studies are analyzed as to their initiation, sponsors, research teams, methodology, duration, level of effort, and dissemination. The report considers technology assessment activity in the areas of food and fibres, housing, biomedical, water resources, power generation, minerals extraction, and transportation technology. It concludes that the federal technology assessment process has been broadened in the last 5 years to give increased attention to secondary consequences of technology but that the improvement is slow and differs from agency to agency. Recommendations for further improvement are offered. A bibliography on technology assessment is included. (NTIS)