CSIRO's relationship with Boeing, now extending over 20 years, has evolved from contract research into a strategic operation delivering benefits to both organisations.
The partnership
The partnership between Boeing and CSIRO began in 1989 based on contract research projects. Boeing recognised CSIRO’s research and development (R&D) capability, which led to a growing number of contracts. The increasing volume of work between the two organisations led to the appointment of dedicated personnel on both sides to manage all interactions.
With a commitment to maximising the benefits of the partnership, both partners worked together to develop a sophisticated and practical model for R&D collaboration, which Boeing is now using for its other partnerships worldwide.
Mutual benefits
The collaboration has since evolved into a relationship delivering benefits to both organisations.
The partners developed an umbrella agreement encompassing all joint projects which cut unnecessary administrative requirements from the individual project level.
For Boeing, our world-class multi-disciplinary capabilities meet its global technology acquisition strategy to source the best technology from the best capabilities in the world.
For CSIRO, the partnership offers advanced research opportunities that have enabled us to build core skills in information and communication technologies (ICT), advanced materials and instrumentation.
Success and growth
A number of factors have contributed to the success and growth of this relationship:
-
Strategic and tactical management: the partners developed an umbrella agreement encompassing all joint projects which cut unnecessary paperwork and administrative requirements from the individual project level.
Interactions between CSIRO’s multiple research divisions and Boeing’s various groups are managed in three tiers – corporate executives, commercial/legal and technical/project.
-
Matching needs and capabilities: the three-tier management structure enabled CSIRO to be involved in Boeing’s technical planning and work, allowing Boeing to match relevant CSIRO capabilities and technology to its business goals.
This analysis provides both partners with a clear view of complementary areas in the partnership and forms the basis for setting the research agenda.
-
Commitment of senior resources: since 1999, CSIRO has based four successive onsite representatives at Boeing’s offices in the US.
These representatives have been instrumental in identifying opportunities for both organisations at the very early stages of planning as well as discipline experts to champion projects from inception to delivery.
After more than 20 years and 35 projects, the relationship continues to grow in both scope and value. CSIRO and Boeing are now working together on opportunities for both organisations in the global market.
Read more about CSIRO's work in Aerospace Transport.
Site Map | Legal Notice and Disclaimer | Privacy | Copyright | Last updated: 28 January 2010
