The ODI Annual Report 2008 captures a remarkable year for the Institute. An overview by ODI Director Simon Maxwell outlines the changing development agenda, and the report includes ‘snapshots’ of the impact of all of our major programmes over the last year. The report also breaks new ground by looking ahead to the five major research themes that will frame the work of ODI in the coming years. A series of articles by our Director of Programmes outline current thinking and research challenges around the MDGs; growth; the future of aid; crisis and risk and the changing role of the 21st century think tank. There are updates on our Fellowship programme and our work on communications, as well as information on staffing and funding.