Open-Sourcing Project Execution

Large construction projects are, at their core, the converting of data into physical items whether it be a building, piping system, or wind-farm. The amount of information it takes to plan, execute, and turnover a project to a Client is truly astounding and grows every year as engineering designs become more complex, Quality Control requirements increase, and Project Controls’ requirements advance. Oftentimes, silos develop between departments and it is not uncommon to see multiple people performing the same or similar tasks without knowing they are redundantly doing so. QC may be working on System identification to RFIs for Turnover in one log while Engineering already has that info for other purposes. We’ve all seen it before: logs, logs of logs, and spreadsheets performing the (ill-suited) function of a database.

The practice of open-sourcing is the sharing and distribution of information and data to be used by others in analysis or contributing to the base knowledge – the practice has its origins in the scientific research and computer development communities. The notion is the greater the sharing of information with multiple parties the more refined information can become as a set of “cold-eyes” with fresh ideas can take an idea to a new level.

Taking the concept of open-source and melding it with our construction projects the result is the identification of common team goals, reduced redundancy, greater efficiency in completions, and often identification of cost saving opportunities.

How do we open-source our projects?

·      Open site trailer designs with multiple department representatives in a shared area facilitates off-the-cuff conversations that lead to shared knowledge and shared tasks

·      Regular information sharing meetings – discuss what each department needs in the coming 30-60-90 days and what each is working on today. Somebody may have already developed part of the information you need. If you have something someone else needs, share it!

·      Rather than utilize the typical adversarial management style we are accustomed to between different parties a collaborate approach does much to tear down silo walls. Be team members!

·      Avoid the tendency to hoard information to keep your job safe – the most valuable team members, and by extension longest employed, are those that want the project to succeed, not just their bank accounts grow

·      Consider utilizing a construction automation tool, such as Bentley’s ConstructSim Advanced WorkPackaging tool, to amalgamate all your project data and ensure all parties are working off the correct revisions of documents and data lists.

What have you done on your projects to keep the flow of information smooth and efficient? Have you experienced success in “open sourcing” your projects?