The success of Philadelphia's "What Works in Reading?" report shows how educational research can be a catalyst for school change and indicates a way for school districts to institutionalize this process. Ten factors were associated with the report's immediate impact on educational policy: identification of the research clients, topical importance, participant involvement, high technical quality, effective reporting formats, close relationship to the decision process, preparatory briefing of policy makers, anticipation of resistance, use of an ombudsman, and entrepreneurial advocacy of the report. A school district can deal with these ten factors on an ongoing basis by establishing a strategic planning and development unit. As proposed for the Philadelphia School District, such a unit would enhance the decision-making process, improve general and specific planning, help maximize district productivity, and facilitate achievement of the district's mission. Among ten suggested activities for such a unit are studying cost effectiveness, planning for school closing, and improving purchasing procedures. The unit's staff should include planners, analysts, and support personnel. (RW)