The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors has launched a new research foundation intended to play a key role in raising the contribution that property professionals make to government, business and the community.

Described as "revolutionary", creation of the foundation is one of the more visible products of a reform and modernisation movement underway at the RICS.

Executive director David Fitzpatrick, formerly head of the British Urban Regeneration Association, intends to break away from the traditional mould of worthy but inconsequential research.

Instead, he will encourage thinking "outside of the box" and promised not to duck controversy in seeking to inform policy and decision making related to a wide range of property activities.

We'll be watching.

Elliott Chase