source: worked on the 787 program, the hardware for our team was selected before there was a team. Our part was only successful and on time in large part because I'm a stubborn asshole.
Thanks for the input!
I have only second and third hand input from the 787 program so didn't want to imply anything there.
I hope Boeing fixes that managerial issues leading to what you describe as I am a fan of its historical product in general. (If I am reading your comments right and I am not blinded by my pre-conceptions.)
Boeing isn't Boeing anymore, it's McDonnell Douglas wearing a Boeing skin suit.
I think that example is slightly tangential to your thrust, but sort of illustrates the bigger problem that when a project is operating anywhere near the boundaries of logistical possibility, it becomes very hard to incorporate perspective from the people with boots on the ground, who know ten ways to get something done and that your suggestion isn't one of them.
It's the same problem General Contractors have with trying to herd architects who try to design at the limits of materials science and don't understand that there's a large gap between physics and execution, where building codes, manufacturing defects, and the ravages of time all live. Not to mention costs (exotic materials often require exotic labor).
This may be why modern Boeing is so fucked.
source: worked on the 787 program, the hardware for our team was selected before there was a team. Our part was only successful and on time in large part because I'm a stubborn asshole.