The ongoing flow of monetary assistance and technological transfer from developed to developing countries is examined and its success gauged. Two examples are cited: "The Mumias Sugar Company--A Success Story in Kenya," and, "The Sao Francisco River Power Development in Brazil--A Disaster along the River." The paper also discusses what appropriate technology means, its role in development, and means of strengthening this role and/or effectiveness. Definitions used in reference to appropriate technology are listed. Four strategies for transferring technology to developing countries are identified and discussed: top-down strategy (in which technology is transferred to the educated elite with the aim that it will trickle-down to the poor); intermediate technology strategy (which provides a step to bridge the gap between indigenous and advanced technology); use of multinational corporations strategy (in which large corporations are used to transfer technology); and basic needs strategy (the transfer of only that technology appropriate to the specific needs of the indigenous population). The shortcomings of the strategies are investigated, followed by plans for strengthening technology transfer strategies and their major components: needs assessment, target group involvement, evaluation/follow-up, and relevance of technology transfer in developing projects. Brief conclusions/recommendations address definitions, strategy shortcomings, and indigenous technologies. (JMM)