The multi-lingual ESPRIT Speech Assessment Methodology Project (2589) started in March 1989. Eight countries collaborate in the work; six from the European community, two from EFTA.

This contribution is concerned to provide a first overview of the practical achievements arising from the European collaboration made possible by the coherent adoption of standard sets of protocols, methods, hardware and software in the field of speech assessment methodology. Detailed reports of particular aspects of the work are presented at the conference by members of the SAM consortium.