The paper describes an alternative view of parameter tracking in recursive estimation and self-tuning control which is based on transient specification. The specific aim is to provide a recursive estimator with parameter tracking features and prescribed transient behaviour. In particular, a class of algorithms is developed by viewing recursive estimators as dynamical systems. Anad hocmodification is introduced which attempts to specify the transient response of parameter estimates. The technique is analogous to pole placement in linear time-invariant dynamical systems, and as such offers a traditional control systems interpretation to parameter tracking.