Our recently uploaded presentation Scheduling Challenges in Horizontally Distributed Projects looks at the challenges of scheduling, managing, and claiming delays in, horizontally distributed projects. The issues in this type of project are similar to the problems encountered in managing project being delivered using an Agile approach using traditional forms of contract. The presentation linked below is the start of a journey, we have a series of in-depth papers planned for 2023 – watch this space.
Horizontally distributed projects have two dominant characteristics, the majority of the work is comprised of a series of physically separated units that are similar or identical in design, and the logical dependencies between the different units are either non-existent or minimal (think of an off-shore wind farm). In this type of project, most of the components are identical and can be used anywhere, which means the work can be planned in almost any sequence, and that sequence can be easily changed at almost any time. This type of project is not well supported by either traditional CPM scheduling, ‘line of balance’, or other traditional project controls paradigms. The challenge is compounded by the fact that some projects are suited to the underlaying principle in CPM that there is one best way to plan and deliver the works, others (typically distributed and/or agile) have no pre-set requirements for the work sequence and others have some level of mandated logical sequence that affects some parts of the work, but not others.
We suggest the primary consideration in planning and managing a distributed project is optimising resource flows. The consequences of re-sequencing if needed are not based around traditional CPM logic, rather the loss in resource efficiency which is much more difficult to assess and measure. This is particularly true when you need to separate productive efficiencies under the control of the contractor from disruption caused by the re-sequencing.
This initial presentation defines the concept of a horizontally distributed project, and then based on some practical examples, highlights the challenges of assessing delay and disruption based on traditional paradigms of CPM scheduling. It will conclude by offering suggested ways to adapt project controls and contractual requirements to provide a sensible assessment of project delays.
This sets the framework for the papers we have planned for 2023 which will:
- Generalize the problem and consider the scheduling Challenges in Agile and distributed projects
- Develop options for predicting completion in Agile and distributed projects drawing on a range of alternatives in both Agile and other methodologies.
- Consider the challenges faced by tribunals and courts in assessing delays in Agile and distributed projects
Download the initial presentation from: https://mosaicprojects.com.au/PMKI-SCH-010.php#Issues-A+D
Pat Weaver
Lynda Bourne
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