This article examines the essential aspects of the provision of programmes for overseas public services—their establishment, design, implementation and evaluation. The areas analysed include the establishment of needs for study and training: approaches and orientation; formulation of policy on programme development, location and design; direction and management of programmes and staff resources; design functions, models, patterns, the search for balance and viability; roles and the contributions of support staff; communications procedures and detail; publicity and public relations; evaluation objectives, agents, procedures and contaminants.