Centre for Technology Management

Developing a Process for The Relative Valuation of R&D Programmes

Clare Farrukh, Rob Phaal, David Probert, Mike Gregory

Centre for Technology Management Cambridge University Engineering Department

John Wright

BAe Military Aircraft and Aerostructures

Abstract

This paper addresses the issue of R&D programme prioritisation within a manufacturing company in the aerospace industry, in the context of an overall framework for technology management. A review of approaches to R&D project selection leads into a recent case, which describes how the company developed a practical methodology. The benefits of the process and the relevance of the academic contribution are discussed, leading to a practical checklist for in-company development of a prioritisation process.