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Moving Research out of the Lab

SENTRY seeks to maximize the likelihood that its research results, including tools, technologies, and knowledge products, transition to DHS components and Soft Target Crowded Places security stakeholders. In support of this, SENTRY is made up of truly cross-functional teams: project leaders working closely with domain experts and researchers, key involvement of end-users and industry partners as appropriate, and the support of a dedicated Transition Team.

Metrics-Based Project Evaluation

SENTRY is committed to regular evaluation of its research portfolio. Research project reviews are led and coordinated by the SENTRY Transition Team and provide an opportunity to develop stronger ties with SENTRY researchers while staying current on research progress. This ongoing engagement allows the team to identify areas that require transition support to benefit the advancement of the project and achieve milestones in a proactive way. In addition to the technical assessments, the team performs project level business and risk assessments as well. These measures are critical in accounting for both the immediate resource, time, and cost impacts and longer-term maintenance impacts, leading to a successful transition.

Project Management Support

To enable researchers to focus on their research, the Transition Team also provides project management support as needed. Transition Liaisons provide clear communications of center expectations and guidelines, tracking of progress on project milestones and deliverables, and identifying and mitigating risk. The team also facilitates external industry, government, and security stakeholder partnerships.

Building Successful Partnerships 

Identifying and collaborating with the right soft target security end-users, industrial partners, and DHS components is key for successfully transitioning SENTRY research. Through the Practitioner Advisory Board, Industry Members, and Case Study Program, the Center has built-in methods for directly embedding stakeholders with SENTRY research from the start. Actively working with these groups allows researchers to immerse themselves in the operational environment, allowing for a meaningful understanding and appreciation of the challenges they are trying to address.