A critical survey of agricultural networks which presents examples from the experience of international research centers and national programs around the world. After tracing the historical roots of the current popularity of networks the authors discuss network development stages from start-up to maturity, including such issues as funding, leadership, and motivation. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

IRRI in brief; Preparing the world's rice bowl for the next century; IRRI revps its work plan; Research program highlights; International program highlights; Information and knowledge exchange; Finance and administration; What some newspapers have said about IRRI; 1993 financial statements; IRRI trustees at April 1994; Internationally and nationally recruited staff 1993; Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR).