In a two-part series, a proposal is presented for implementation research which integrates practical, technical, and political judgment. This implementation research—or 8–4 research—is contrasted with pseudo-technical research. In Part I it is proposed that nursing research should be assessed in terms of payoff for nursing rather than promise for nursing, that 8–4 research is a suitable paradigm for all nursing research, and that nursing research is a suitable preoccupation for any and all nursing personnel. Part II (to appear in the May-June 1975 Nursing Research) develops eight points of encounter—as between 8–4 research and pseudotechnical research—pertinent to designing nursing research. A conception of design is proposed that displays an appropriate role for conation, drive, or intent in any designed research