Several documents concerning regional educational laboratories are reviewed, key propositions are analyzed, and recommendations are proposed. Attention is directed to the way that labs and centers operate with regard to dissemination and school improvement. Overviews are presented of two major reports: "R&D Funding Policies of the National Institute of Education: Review and Recommendations," (Roald Campbell) and "Research and Development Centers and Regional Educational Laboratories: Strengthening and Stabilizing a National Resource" (Panel for the Review of Laboratory and Center Operations). Additional documents that are reviewed include: "Information Dissemination and Exchange for Educational Innovations" (Michael Radnor et al.); "The Research and Development Exchange: In Support of School Improvement" (National Institute of Education Regional Program Unit); "A Description of the Regional Services Program" (Richard A. Lallmang); "The NIE Regional Programs: Evolution of the R&D Exchange and Regional Service Components" (John A. Emrick and Susan M. Peterson); "Organizations that Perform Educational R&D: A First Look at the Universe" (Laurie M. Sharp, Joanne Frankel); and "Performers of Research and Research-Related Activities in the Field of Education" (J. Frankel, L. M. Sharp, and Albert D. Biderman). (SW)