This manual discusses major differences between academic and commercial educational research (CER) and provides suggestions to help researchers who want to conduct CER. The paper is based on the experiences of the TAFE National Center for Research and Development Ltd in Leabrook (Australia). Focus is on describing how to apply for grants and how to manage CER projects. Topics include: steps involved in making a submission or proposal to conduct CER, the research methodology, budgeting and scheduling the research project, establishment of project committees, the politics of research, and outcomes of research. CER is client-oriented and has hefty constraints placed upon it, whereas academic educational research is researcher-oriented and methodology-driven and has fewer constraints. Determining what CER is available can be a time-consuming activity, especially for persons just starting to conduct this kind of research. Therefore, guidelines for writing submissions that show the prospective client that the researcher is knowledgeable, experienced, and competent are provided. CER is intensely political. Commercial researchers, who are usually under pressure to complete their work quickly, are cautioned to not neglect good research and business practices. Accurate budgeting and scheduling, and a properly balanced project committee are essential for the successful implementation of CER. Committees should give advice and help in conducting the research, and committee members have an important political role. Good communication can help overcome some problems that arise in the area of politics of research. A model submission is provided. (RLC)