The principle of R&D input data's normality and the evaluation of data quality

R&D input indices are the critical part in the basis indices system of Science & Technology Statistics. It makes sense to master their stochastic characteristics for S&T monitoring and S&T evaluating. When the social and economical environment of a country is stable, the R&D input data of time series follow the normal distribution. Influenced by the 2000 nationwide R&D investigation, the data of R&D expenditures and R&D/GDP had experienced significantly the structural change, and did not follow the normal principle during 1987-2008. The reason that data of indices of 2000 had the highest speed of increase may rely on the improvement of statistical investigating method and the enlargement of the investigating scope. The effect of S&T policy in China seemingly play its main role on S&T statistical work and the stability of statistical investigating rule influences seriously data quality of R&D input in China.