Management of an R&D planning process utilizing an advisory group

This paper emphasizes the practical aspects of selecting projects or programs for funding utilizing an experience-based resource group or team of “experts.” A process is proposed for identifying research and development (R&D) needs in a systematic manner which attempts to minimize impulsiveness, while maximizing careful review and decision making. The methodology discussed here has proven to be effective at clarifying problem areas and producing group consensus. Common pitfalls and means to circumvent counterproductive efforts and inefficiencies are cited.