How can R&D best provide resource for cross-functional business projects?

Is it better to use interim resources or divert permanent staff to work on cross-business projects like Brexit preparations or M&A Integration?

In my experience there are good reasons for using permanent staff.  These types of project often providing growth opportunities, stretching people and giving them new experiences. These can be opportunity for specialised technical staff to build broader appreciation of the breadth of their function and to interact with functions across the business, building their total business understanding.  Permanent staff also have a long-term interest in project success and are better placed to demonstrate the culture and values of the organisation. But there are problems too; long periods away from BAU jobs can make it difficult to go back, as the individual may have grown beyond their role, and covering the gaps in BAU may lead to knock on problems in resourcing and delivery of innovation programme.

Interim resource for project roles can be the answer, but does the interim have the required skills and experience and the specific knowledge of the organisation to be successful? Only time will tell if they are up to the job and it can be an expensive mistake.

 One potential solution is to use the internal resource for the project and backfill with interim resource-can this be the best of both worlds? I’d love to hear your views.

At Canopy R&D we have you covered whatever approach you want to take. Please get in touch to discuss your challenge and we will be happy to recommend a suitable solution.