Managing Engineering for Profit in the Aerospace Industry

Management of engineering for profit is examined from the establishment of company objectives in the advanced planning stage through the planning and control of major programs. Five major areas are discussed: advanced program planning, managing small projects, developing the engineering processes leading to integrated major program plans, controlling the engineering effort, and managing the engineering rates. These five areas range from highly creative concepts to detailed control techniques.

Approaches which have proven useful for reducing costs and maximizing profits are outlined. The delineation of authorities, responsibilities, and accountabilities is made where applicable. Actual examples from existing projects are included. The management techniques which are described are considered generally applicable to any large aerospace company where the major target is the capture and efficient execution of large complex programs. These management techniques could be extended to apply to other industries.