At a recent meeting on crystal growth and defect characterization, there were many researchers who expressed a need for more and better facilities for analytical work. To help fulfill this need, Charles F. Yost, director for materials science, Advanced Research Projects Agency, proposed that a symposium be arranged to present, in a consolidated fashion, the capabilities and limitations of available analytical resources, especially as they relate to materials problems in ARPA-sponsored laboratories. The ensuing symposium, organized and held at RCA Laboratories was conducted in the spirit of a workshop or “clinic” with ample opportunity provided for discussion. There was an informality that resulted in considerable audience participation and interaction. The talks and discussions covered not only technical aspects of particular analytical procedures, but also the over-all problem of effectively coupling analytical service to a materials research program.