Framework and tools for the quality of R&D

Summary form only given. Product developing companies search for competitive advantage by speeding up time-to-market and through efficiency and quality of the product development process. Product development is also a critical activity, where failures may be disastrous. We define the quality of R&D simply through its ability to fulfil requirements and expectations. It becomes immediately necessary to ask: what is excepted from a well performing R&D function. For a technology-oriented company, the strategic objective of R&D is to create and maintain the company's ability to design, manufacture and support new, cutting edge products. Such capability includes knowledge of basic technology, knowledge of good designs, and knowledge of design and manufacturing processes.