The "P" in IARPA is Very Important

  • Technical and programmatic excellence are required.
  • Each program will have a clearly defined and measurable end-goal, typically 3-5 years out.
  • Intermediate clear and measurable milestones to measure progress are also required.
  • A new program may be started that builds upon what has been accomplished in a previous program, but that new program must compete against all other new programs.
  • This approach, coupled with rotational Program Manager (PM) positions, helps to ensure that...
    • IARPA does not "institutionalize" programs.
    • Fresh ideas and perspectives are always coming in.
    • The status quo is always questioned.
    • Only the best ideas are pursued, and only the best performers are funded.