In addition, however, to harness the potential of science and technology and climb the innovation ladder, more public resources need to be devoted to the generation, diffusion and use of knowledge and technology, institutional reforms in S&T governance, policy design and implementation need to be continued and stepped up as they affect the efficiency of instruments. Sustained political commitment, consensus building among stakeholders in determining national priorities and social visibility of the benefits to the economy and society as a whole are essential to a successful S&T and innovation policy. This requires oversight processes to ensure that priorities are effectively addressed in the design of innovation policies and reflected both in budgetary appropriations and institutional arrangements for policy implementation. Scientific, economic and social outcomes of increased public investment should be highlighted in the public debate, hence the importance of accountability.