# Heilmeier Catechism DARPA operates on the principle that generating big rewards requires taking big risks. But how does the Agency determine what risks are worth taking? George H. Heilmeier, a former DARPA director (1975-1977), crafted a set of questions known as the "Heilmeier Catechism" to help Agency officials think through and evaluate proposed research programs. * 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 is new in your approach and why do you think it will be successful? * Who cares? If you are successful, what difference will it make? * What are the risks? * How much will it cost? * How long will it take? * What are the mid-term and final “exams” to check for success?