Project Management Strategies for Complex Projects

Infrastructure needs within the United States have changed from building new facilities to replacing, expanding, or renewing existing facilities. The project management issues involved with infrastructure renewal are different from the issues for new construction. Correspondingly, new project management approaches must be integrated into mainstream practice for all sizes and types of projects to accelerate project delivery, reduce project costs, and minimize project disputes.The difficulties of renewal project complexity have been exacerbated by years of underfunded maintenance and replacement programs. As a result many renewal projects have become even more challenging because of the need to avert major traffic disruptions and in some cases infrastructure failures. Project complexity is introduced by many factors: project types, engineering complexity, size, modality, jurisdictional control, financing approach, contract type, and delivery method. Each project calls for a distinct project management style and approach. This research report documents the research and results performed within the Strategic Highway Research Program 2 (SHRP 2) project R10, Project Management Strategies for Complex Projects. The research scope involved the development of surveys, case study reports, training, technical tools, and a guide to address the current-day challenges of infrastructure project management that are considerably more complex than traditional projects. The R10 project reports facilitate the use of effective strategies in managing complex projects of any size and type. The five-dimensional approach for project management of complex projects is not a new subject. However, it is extensively developed, outlined, and clearly mapped for acceptance and integration within the R10 project. The five dimensions are cost, schedule, technical, context, and finance. Successful use of the approach involves five methods which are unique for each project: define project success factors by each dimension, as required; assemble project team; select project arrangements; prepare early cost model and finance plan; and develop project action plans. Acceptance and use of this guidance should improve the state of the practice by focusing on practical tools and techniques that are designed to be immediately beneficial to transportation professionals.

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