George H. Heilmeier: Architect of Innovation and the Enduring Catechism

George H. Heilmeier (1936-2014) was a visionary engineer and leader whose impact on technology and research management continues to resonate today. Beyond his groundbreaking work in liquid crystal displays (LCDs) at RCA, Heilmeier is perhaps most widely recognized for developing the "Heilmeier Catechism," a powerful framework born from his tenure at the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and later applied in his leadership at Bellcore. 

The DARPA Years and the Birth of the Catechism

Heilmeier served as the Director of DARPA from 1975 to 1977, a pivotal period during which the agency was grappling with how to effectively identify and fund truly transformative, "high-risk, high-reward" research. He recognized that many project proposals, while technically sound, often lacked clarity on their ultimate purpose, impact, and feasibility. To address this, he devised a series of eight fundamental questions – the Heilmeier Catechism – designed to cut through jargon and force proponents to articulate the essence of their work.

These questions, still a cornerstone of DARPA's evaluation process, demand a clear and concise explanation of:

• What are you trying to do? (Objectives, jargon-free)
• How is it done today, and what are the limits of current practice?

• • What is new in your approach and why do you think it will be successful?
  • Who cares? (Impact and significance)
  • What are the risks?

• How much will it cost?

• How long will it take?
• What are the mid-term and final "exams" to check for success?

Leadership at Bellcore: Applying the Principles to Telecommunications

After his influential time at DARPA and a significant period at Texas Instruments, Heilmeier took the helm of Bellcore (Bell Communications Research) as its President and CEO in 1991. Bellcore was a research and engineering consortium owned by the seven regional Bell operating companies, formed in the wake of the AT&T breakup.

In this new role, Heilmeier brought his characteristic rigor and strategic vision to the telecommunications industry. He championed the application of the same fundamental principles embodied in his Catechism to Bellcore's research and development efforts. As the telecommunications landscape underwent "tectonic shifts" with the emerging realities of deregulation and evolving technologies, Heilmeier guided Bellcore through significant transitions, including its eventual sale. His leadership underscored the universal applicability of his questioning framework, demonstrating that clarity of purpose, understanding of current limitations, innovative approaches, and a clear vision of impact are critical to success in any domain, whether national defense or commercial telecommunications.

George H. Heilmeier's legacy is a testament to the power of asking the right questions. His Catechism remains a vital instrument for researchers, entrepreneurs, and leaders worldwide, serving as a timeless guide for turning ambitious ideas into meaningful realities.