Using a strong electric field, it is possible to orient polar molecules in their lowest rotational states. This "brute force" technique, introduced by Loesch, is very powerful and has many applications. In this paper, we recall the general theory of the effect, i.e., the properties of the pendular states introduced by Friedrich and Herschbach. We then discuss the effects of hyperfine structure on the orientation process. Finally, we discuss the optimization of an oriented molecular beam of ICl.