In 1917 a new building rose on Memorial Drive. This was the Arthur D Little Inc Building. It wasn’t just any building. It housed the groundbreaking Arthur D Little company. This company was revolutionary. It pioneered the concept of contracted professional services. Before Arthur D Little businesses conducted their own research. Little changed all that. He and his partner William H Walker created a consulting laboratory. Their services were available for hire by other businesses.
The Arthur D Little Building itself is rather unassuming. It’s a three-story brick structure. Architecturally it’s not particularly special. Its true significance lies in its history. The building stands as a testament to Arthur D Little’s vision. He recognized the importance of technological innovation for business success. He championed this idea throughout his life.
Initially focusing on cellulose chemistry the company expanded rapidly. By 1909 it was the nation’s largest consulting industrial laboratory. The company’s work touched many fields. They played a crucial role in the development of the word processor. They even contributed to the creation of the first synthetic penicillin. The Arthur D Little Company’s contributions are remarkable. The building stands as a tribute to their legacy. Its historical importance is undeniable. It’s a National Historic Landmark. Today it serves as headquarters for the dean of the MIT Sloan School of Management. It continues to stand as a symbol of innovation and enterprise. Walking past this building remember the important contributions made within its walls. The Arthur D Little Building is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a window into a pivotal era of American innovation.