The Stark structure of the Rydberg states of the lighter alkali atoms, Li, Na, and K, and the Stark oscillator strength distribution for Li have been calculated by diagonalization of the quantum defect orbital (QDO) Hamiltonian matrix. The presently obtained Stark maps are in excellent agreement with those resulting from theory and experiment, as reported in the literature by other authors. Good accord is also found for the presently calculated oscillator strength distribution, within a Stark manifold, with that of other theoretical approach and experimental measurements. The adequacy of the QDO procedure for accurately dealing with properties related to the Stark effect in atoms is suggested. (C) 2003 American Institute of Physics.