Arup's researchers work to expand and communicate know-how; building the foundations for future business by identifying needs and opportunities and collaborating with external partners.
Arup's emphasis on innovation spans the process from concept to commercialisation. The firm's research is driven by roadmapping techniques that translate global requirements into business opportunities. The resulting research agenda addresses the future needs of the firm and its clients.
The firm's inhouse research capability is augmented by strategic alliances and partnerships. Arup's Research Review is an example not only of the quality of research, but also of the strength of these partnerships, collaboration and networks.
Research network
Arup's global research network is central to the firm's success. The network facilitates communication between fellow Arup researchers and academic and industrial research partners around the world. The objective is to share strategy, knowledge and best practice.
Arup seeks to align its thinking with, and to influence, research priorities of the countries where it operates. In the UK, the firm is proud of its long-term relationship with the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), with whom it has a strategic partnership – the first of its kind in the sector.
Arup is also leading the way for the UK, on behalf of the public and private sectors, in an EU Public-Private Partnership on energy-efficient buildings. This exciting initiative will contribute to Europe’s energy independence and the reduction of CO2 emissions.
Delivering research to clients
The research business team provides Arup's multidisciplinary research capability to clients. It combines Arup's global research expertise with that of research partners to create holistic solutions to clients' research requirements.
For example, the 'Your home in a changing climate' report looked at adapting existing homes for flood and overheating resilience alongside water efficiency. The final product for policy makers brought together the relevant issues and potential solutions, drawing on Arup’s wide range of expertise in the many areas relevant to this complex issue.
The team runs strategic roadmapping workshops for clients, an example of which is the exercise to set the research agenda for ICT and Automation in the construction sector, conducted for the National Platform for Construction. This facilitated process helps clients to address strategic issues facing their business or sector and produce a multi-level plan with buy-in from across their organisation. The process involves assessing key requirements, identifying the business opportunities that arise from them and reviewing the resources and processes that are needed to meet these opportunities.
The team also provides research programme management services and organises and facilitates specialist seminars and workshops.