A new approach to the problem of eigenvalue assignment by output feedback is proposed. For an n-order linear dynamical system with m inputs and r outputs. the problem is reduced to a (n - m) state feedback control problem constrained by a simple system of linear algebraic equations. This solution Is obtained for m + r greater than or equal to n + 1. Otherwise a new minimal-order dynamical observer is developed to provide the required (n - m - r + 1)-order additional output vector. In both cases the output feedback design is greatly simplified. An illustrative example, with an application to flight control, demonstrates the implementation of the design procedure.