Approaches to research & innovation
This workshop will examine approaches to research and innovation from infrastructure clients' perspective.
Tickets:
Attendance is free, however, this workshop is by invitation only.
THIS WORKSHOP IS FULLY SUBSCRIBED.
Background
CIRIA – the Construction Research and Information Association has, over 50 years, focussed on knowledge transfer for the purposes of promoting better practice and improving industry and environmental performance.
CIRIA works collaboratively, focusing on knowledge transfer within the industry – between clients, their supply chains, regulators etc. pooling and sharing knowledge to help produce authoritative and independent guidance. Many of the guides have drawn on relevant academic work and practices from other sectors and countries.
Engage in research and better exploitation of the results in the form of innovation within organisations is important their continuing effectiveness and growth.
Industry Research
Construction is a complex multi-disciplinary industry. Many of its technical challenges rest within particular disciplines (e.g geotechnical) others are associated with particular types of structure or assets (e.g. railways). However, many issues relating to the commercial, technical or environmental process are common. Many of the opportunities to address these issues rely and benefit from inter-disciplinary or cross-organisational working.
Some organisations’ approach to research and innovation are more highly developed than others who might benefit from understanding the approaches adopted and lessons learned. This includes the opportunities available for support with research needs and/or influencing research investment.
Organisations are sometimes unaware of work being undertaken elsewhere to address the issues that they are facing. This includes activities within academic and industry organisations. With ever-tightening budgets, the need to maximise the synergies and benefits of research within and between sectors – including the opportunities for collaboration – has become increasingly important.
Why attend?
The workshop will provide delegates with the opportunity to hear about and discuss the following. Possible presentations are shown in parentheses.
Presentations:
1. An organisational approach research and innovation
Andy Moores, Programme Manager, Evidence Directorate, Environment Agency
2. How research priorities are identified - EPSRC
Roger Singleton Escofet, Portfolio Manager – Engineering. Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council
3. Improving industry performance – the role of the (revised) Construction Leadership Council
Simon Rawlinson, Head of Strategic Research, EC Harris / Member of UK Construction Leadership Council
4. An overview of approaches in other industries.
Paul Simmonds, UK Managing Director, Technopolis
5. CIRIA Member feedback on approaches to research – preliminary questionnaire results
Owen Jenkins, Director, CIRIA
Discussion sessions:
- Sharing knowledge about approaches to identifying and prioritising R&D
- Sharing knowledge about identifying and communicating common R&D needs
- Addressing common needs collaboratively
- Need for and scope for research and innovation interest group
When
Tuesday 13 October 2015, (2pm - 5.30pm)
Where
London venue TBC