Aligning R&D With Business Strategy

Every technology-based company struggles to keep R&D focus in alignment with corporate business strategy. However, ensuring that the unique perspective of the R&D organization is included in the corporate strategic planning process is often a greater challenge, but one that is crucial for a company confronting new and emerging technologies with the potential to significantly change the competitive landscape. International Paper has found a "Voice of Technology" protocol and an Innovation Council to be effective in creating such alignment and fostering R&D input into the strategic planning of the business.