AbstractÐA model is developed to show that texture is a crucial factor in determining the shape-memory e ect in polycrystals. In particular, it is established that texture is the reason why the strains recoverable in Ti±Ni are so much larger than those in Cu-based shape-memory alloys in rolled, extruded and drawn specimens. Further, it is shown that both these materials recover relatively small strains in sputter-deposited thin ®lms due to unfavorable texture. It is found that even the qualitative behavior of combined tension± torsion can critically depend on the texture. The results are in good agreement with experimental observations. Finally, textures are suggested for improved shape-memory e ect. #