Leading R&D: How Much Progress in 10 Years?

Abstract

OVERVIEW:R&D managers have been working on strengthening their management of R&D over the last 10 years. One of the questions that they surely must ask themselves is, “How much progress have we made?” Through a study of six R&D organizations, this question is, at least, partly answered. The six organizations have made significant progress over the last 10 years, particularly with respect to their selection of R&D, their management of R&D projects, and their coordination with the marketing function in developing new products. On the other hand, because the other functions in their companies still do not appreciate the value of long-term R&D, they continue to have serious problems getting their long-term R&D supported. In addition, all of these R&D organizations still need to improve their communications, both within and with the rest of the company, their measurement of R&D, and their technology forecasting.