All projects have an inherent risk of program delay as it only takes one aspect of the project – such as untimely resolution of design issues, changes in the project team, or changes in scope – to impact the program. In multi-disciplinary major projects, this risk is amplified due to the complexity of the project. With the potential for program delays to lead to cost blowouts and unsatisfied clients, it is vital that the project team conducts regular program reviews of their major project.
Major projects – categorised as projects that are economically significant to Australia – have been delivered in Australia over decades and will continue to be delivered in Australia in the decades to come. Recognising this, there are a number of reoccurring factors that contribute to program delay and should be actively mitigated in future major projects. These include:
· Changes in scope: As programs are produced based on the scope, any changes in scope will have the potential to cause a program delay
· Inadequate planning/resources: A lack of appropriate resources to conduct the work leads to program delays as resources will require time to be sourced and onboarded
· Poor communication: Poor communication amongst the project team members causes confusion, misinformation, and mistakes which in turn leads to program delays
· Risk management issues: If all risks are not identified and mitigated accordingly, an unexpected emerging risk has the potential to disrupt the project and cause program delays
· Changes in project team: Frequent changes in the project team has the potential to cause program delays as time is required to onboard new team members
Through our extensive experience gleaned in the program management of major Infrastructure projects, MCE understands the importance of regular program reviews and has the skillset required to assist the project team in delivering according to the program. For more info on how we can assist with your project, send us an email at info@mce-aus.com.
Author: Annabella Dao
