
195Organizing Development Projects
O
Si
2
R
1
A building supply company developed an enhanced roofing membrane
that was innovative and functional. Initial samples of the invention were
refined and improved to make a product that could be produced at a
price appropriate for the application. The optimal material was a combi-
nation of silicone-coated polyethylene and a tar compound. In the pro-
duction process, it was necessary to cross-link the silicone, transforming
it from a free-flowing liquid into a tightly bonded matrix. To accomplish
this transformation, a platinum catalyst was added at parts per million
levels.
After the company began commercia ...