O-17 solid state NMR of organic materials is developing rapidly. This article provides a snapshot of the current state of development of this field. The NMR techniques and enrichment protocols that are driving this progress are outlined. The O-17 parameters derived from solid-state NMR experiments are summarized and the structural sensitivity of the approach to effects such as hydrogen bonding highlighted. The prospects and challenges for O-17 solid-state NMR of biomolecules are discussed. (C) 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.