Heilmeier's Catechism

Here is a helpful set of questions to ask yourself before embarking on your next project, attributed to George Heilmeier:

• What are you trying to do? Articulate your objectives using absolutely no jargon.
• How is it done today, and what are the limits of current practice?
• What’s new in your approach and why do you think it will be successful?
• Who cares?
• If you’re successful, what difference will it make?
• What are the risks and the payoffs?
• How much will it cost?
• How long will it take?
• What are the midterm and final “exams” to check for success?

Unfortunately, I cannot guarantee that asking these questions will result in great enough work that you will get a catechism named after you.