Project Execution Plan Knowledge Resources

Past research has proven that a key factor in successful organization adoption of new project delivery process and tools is proper training.  To best meet the training needs of DWP, a training framework predicated on the insights gained through the research was developed.   This webtool platform follows the developed training framework and is comprised of learning content (slide decks), informational resources, and guides/manuals/examples for each PEP element (21 total elements).  

The platform also includes a PEP Library. The PEP Library is a compilation of various project execution plans, guides, and manuals available for DWP personnel to aid them in performing their daily tasks.  It includes examples of how different organizations globally have developed execution frameworks for optimizing their project delivery approaches. 

This resource is built to be used both before and during a PDB project (or any type of project where planning and coordinating the project team and activities is beneficial).  

Note: DWP access to some articles may require additional purchases/subscriptions to the publishing organizations.

Building upon the hands-on support for implementation and adoption of design-build within WETS and its initial project, and following a review of current processes, practices, protocols, and available information (as well as considering available historical information), the research focused on developing a knowledge structure for furthering future adoption of alternative project delivery methods (specifically progressive design-build (PDB)).  

To this end, an implementation tool (named a Project Execution Plan) for PDB was developed to provide a set of specific practices, guidelines, roles and responsibilities, and resources for DWP personnel to potentially utilize while executing projects in an alternative project delivery framework.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resultant reduction of the PDB project being executed during this research’s project schedule, the original research methodology and training goal was modified to still allow for the research deliverables to be achieved despite not having five or more DWP projects to explore as originally planned and without being able to meet in-person.  Consequently, the research expanded its initial scope of PDB topic considerations and used a combination of various methodologies that incorporate both a comprehensive review and consolidation of information as well as generative new data sources, including:

• Available archival research and publications
• Professional organizations and technical resources 
• Cross-Functional Industry Best Practices
• Expert Interviews
• Design-Build and Progressive Design Build contractual information, case studies, and sourcebooks 
• Standards & Manuals 
• Past project records and documents

A Delphi Panel (Expert Panel) comprised of industry executives and subject matter experts was still employed as originally planned.  A four-iteration approach was used, affording consensus after initial analysis followed by three iterative reviews and interviews.  All data were collected in an individual setting to minimize bias and afford maximum perspective and validity in the outputs. 

The resultant webtool platform contains substantial training content, resource libraries, over 100 PEP examples, and links to additional information.