Masters of Scale Rapid Response: Public-private opportunities, with Defense Innovation Unit's Mike Brown
Feb 16, 2021
Mike Brown, director of the Defense Innovation Unit and former CEO of Symantec, discusses the vital role of public-private partnerships in enhancing U.S. military capabilities. He reflects on the need for speed over bureaucracy in government dealings with tech innovators. Topics include the rapid adaptation of health tech during crises and the shift towards innovative defense procurement. Brown also addresses cybersecurity challenges posed by nation-state attacks and the competitive risks from China's advancements, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and agility in defense strategies.
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Government vs. Corporate Structure
- Government organizations have less flexibility than corporate boards due to Congressional oversight and complex funding allocation.
- The Department of Defense, for example, has four Congressional Oversight Committees.
Working with the Government
- Streamline processes and prioritize speed when working with the government.
- Provide quick answers, even rejections, to minimize opportunity cost for small businesses.
DIU's COVID-19 Response
- The Defense Innovation Unit adapted to COVID-19 by implementing remote work and focusing on pandemic-related projects.
- Two examples include robotic disinfection (Clean Sweep) and digital wearable health monitoring to predict COVID-19 symptoms.