This paper explores possible answers to the question of why more social science research is not applied to the solution of current problems. A series of interviews in several cities with 45 people, including members of city government and university administrators and faculty, provided the data for this study. In particular, the work of the Urban Observatory Program in selected cities was observed. The program's goals are to promote and coordinate urban research by universities which will relate to urban problems and to make the results of this research available to local governments. Some of the significant obstacles to the implementation of social science research carried out by universities in the solution of urban problems are (1) the differences in organization, philosophy, and methodology between universities and the city governments which are the subjects of the research; (2) the theoretical nature of some types of research; (3) the poor methodology used for some research; and (4) apathy and bureaucratic red tape on the part of the city governments and universities. Suggested methods to insure better implementation of research projects include a minimum five-year tenure for university programs and better communication between participants in cooperative projects. (Author/MK)