An investigation of the use of network techniques in research and development management

Network management techniques were at one time mandatory for aerospace R&D projects. This study investigates the current extent to which network management techniques-the basic PERT/CPM network, cost duration analysis, and critical resource analysis-are being used as part of aerospace R&D management. Ninety-eight interviews with individuals in government and industry gathered data about usage and effectiveness. The results indicate wide use of the basic network techniques, about 50 percent of the organizations contacted, and a very high rating of networks as an R&D planning tool. On the other hand, cost duration analysis and critical resource analysis have low use rates.