More good action coming out of DHS: The Commercialization Office

December 22, 2009 By BobGourley

I recently watched a briefing from Dr. Thomas Cellucci of the DHS Commercialization Office.

The office runs programs designed to enable DHS S&T to do its job. It is supposed to draw on the resources, skills, experience and productivity of the private sector to develop technologies aligned with DHS S&T focus areas. This office helps keep many stakeholders aware of technologies of interest.

The mission of the office, according to the site, is to identify, evaluate and commercialize technologies into products or services that meet the requirements of DHS stakeholders, including the Department operating components, the first responder community, and others including Critical Infrastructure and Key Resources (CIKR) owners and operators.

This office is also lead for developing and managing the Department’s outreach efforts in these areas. Objectives, from their site at: http://www.dhs.gov/xabout/structure/gc_1234194479267.shtm include:

Develop and implement an integrated marketing strategy to effectively promote the Department’s detailed requirements and needs to critical potential partners in the private sector.
Perform outreach efforts with industry groups and private sector entities.
Establish performance metrics throughout the commercialization process.
Develop best practices for the commercialization of products and services in coordination with Department program managers and stakeholders.
Maintain contact with scientists and engineers in government, industry and academia to meet the specific, identified needs of Department stakeholders.

I wanted to add that I could tell from hearing Dr. Cellucci brief that he has a clear, actionable vision and is doing the right things in the right way. My impression is that this office will make a significant positive impact in the ability of our nation’s great technology providers to be able to serve in this mission area. If you know of a technology you believe is aligned with DHS S&T goals please check out the site at:

http://www.dhs.gov/xabout/structure/gc_1234194479267.shtm

and use the contact information on that page to start a dialog.