SkunkWorks

an Under The Radar operation, typically within a BigCo (or BigGov) that avoids the surrounding bureaucracy and Process Management (Best Practices) and accomplishes big things. A Creative Network? Definitely D And D.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skunk_works

famous example: LockheedSkunkWorks - build major aircraft like the SR71 Black Bird spy plane

• http://popularmechanics.com/science/aviation/1999/9/skunk_works/print.phtml
• list of books http://www.dropbears.com/b/broughsbooks/aviation/skunk_works.htm
  • Skunk Works: A Personal Memoir of My Years of Lockheed by Ben Rich ISBN:0316743003
  • More Than My Share of It All by Kelly Johnson ISBN:0874744911
• http://www.wpafb.af.mil/museum/tours/vt7.htm
• they actually have a TradeMark on the name!
• Kelly Johnson's rules: 1. The Skunk Works manager must be delegated practically complete control of his program in all aspects. He should report to a division president or higher.
  • Mantra: Be quick, be quiet, and be on time!
• some good references to it in Bruce Sterling's Zenith Angle.

they originated the KISS concept

popularized by Tom Peters http://www.theworkingmanager.com/articles/detail.asp?ArticleNo=217

http://www.cioinsight.com/article2/0,1397,1458052,00.asp

Skunkworks as Distributed Networks: Today, however, a different model for innovation is possible because of computer networks. Instead of one "second-floor loft six miles from headquarters," now companies have many such operations, linked by communications. Skunknets are the new distributed work dynamos.

http://www.cscresearchservices.com/foundation/library/P038/RP04.asp