When it comes to product innovation and development, or process refinement and improvement, the role of the R and D department is critical. Other departments, such as sales and marketing, might be more outwardly facing, but while Research & Development is separate from these, it has functions that are closely related. R&D is the means for companies to achieve future growth and maintain their relevance in their chosen market. It involves spending resources on investigation and testing to develop new products or new ways of doing things. It also supports the enhancement of existing products or processes.