The objective of every project manager is to deliver on their obligations predictably and quickly. Whether introducing new product in a factory, or developing Software in an agile environment, or developing a design in a lab, there are inherent unknowns and uncertainties among the team that can cause confusion and unmet objectives resulting in delays, inefficiencies, and unhappy customers. This is where today's session, Reverse Planning – A Leader's Secret Weapon for Alignment, comes into play.

Using Reverse Planning, a team can better collaborate on interdependencies, align on execution strategy, and ensure that all interested parties can voice their opinion so that the resulting plan represents the best reflection of reality and identifies opportunities for better performance.

Reverse Planning is a key element of Raytheon’s approach to developing aligned teams and making confident predictions about schedule completion dates.

This discussion explores the fundamentals of how Raytheon conducts Reverse Planning and how we use a tool called Flying Logic to facilitate the process.

About the Speaker

Gary L Miller is a 40-year veteran of the Aerospace & Defense Industry.

He currently acts as an internal Management Consultant for RTX Corporation working with teams around the country and around the world to help with Proposal Development, Program Startup, and Program Execution. He is the company champion for Critical Chain Project Management (CCPM).  Mr. Miller has deployed Critical Chain on programs large and small. He holds degrees in both engineering and education.

In 2001, Gary was provided the opportunity to become a Raytheon Six Sigma expert where he leveraged his engineering, leadership, educational, and change management skills to affect change in various RMS programs spanning all areas of the RMS portfolio.  Gary certified as a Raytheon Six Sigma Expert in 2002 and certified as a Master Six Sigma Expert in 2007. 

During his Raytheon Six Sigma career, Gary was exposed to Critical Chain Project Management and adopted it as a core skill set.  Gary has helped apply or teach Critical Chain across every Raytheon business and at suppliers and customers around the world. 

When Raytheon merged with UTC in early 2020, the new RTX Corporation combined Raytheon with Collins Aerospace, and Pratt & Whitney.  The RTX Corporation has adopted Critical Chain within the scope of their CORE operating system and continues to advocate and endorse its deployment.

Gary now lives in Denver, CO with his wife and enjoys spending time with his little granddaughter.