Research and development businesses investigate scientific, technical or commercial questions and use the findings to create or improve products, processes and services. Their work may involve basic research to build knowledge, applied research to address a defined problem, or development that turns an idea or research result into a practical design, formulation, software system or production method. Activities vary by sector and can include laboratory experiments, field studies, data analysis, engineering design and feasibility assessments. Some organisations conduct research for their own products, while others provide contract research, consultancy or technical support to clients. Typical services include reviewing existing evidence, planning and carrying out studies, building and testing prototypes, evaluating performance, and documenting results.