Project and Engineering Management

Introduction

General definition of a project

A project is a unique scheme of actions and activities that is required for achieving a specific objective within a specified time schedule and budget. This implies that the project boundaries must be clearly defined with a scope definition, list of what is to be provided under contract (such as: documents, services and materials), start date, and completion date.

A project phase or project sub activity can be considered as an independent activity, in this case the activity should be considered as a project in its own right and the same criteria must be applied as if it is a separate project.

Project organization

An effective project management team with clearly defined objectives and responsibilities are the prerequisites for a successful execution and completion of a project. 

Bornemann Consultancy can provide project management services such as:

● Assessment of contractual constraints, minimize risks and liability exposure, as well as developing a risk profile.
● Monitoring progress and expenditures for ensuring that the project is delivered on time/on schedule and within budget.
● Scope control, i.e., ensuring the project is being executed in conformance with the technical requirements and conditions.
● Monitoring cash flow, working capital, cost and expenditures.
● Monitoring sub-contractor and vendor performance and any third party involvement .

A project life cycle can be split up into six major phases. Each phase has different objectives and peculiarities and consequently must be dealt with in different fashions. BC can provide project management services for any of the project phases briefly described in this scenario model . This scenario model can be applied to almost any production facility.

1.0 Phase 1 - Conceptual / feasibility studies and front end engineering &design studies.

Conceptual/feasibility studies.
Objective: Identification of the technical and economical feasibility of a facility.
Large organizations (end users) sometimes have this study executed by an in-house specialist, but more often the study will be assigned to specialist consultants.

Front End Engineering and Design (FEED)

When the objectives of the conceptual/feasibility study have been found realistic, and has been approved based on data and information evolved from this study, a FEED study can be developed. In general the level of detail of the FEED study should be such that a construction contractor can prepare a tender to engineer, procure the material, and construct the facility. The FEED is to focus on system design, preparation of specifications, and the preparation of an accurate cost estimate (± 15 % accuracy). Geotechnical and geographical surveys as well as detailed environmental impact/effect studies may be part of the scope but also may be included in Phase 2.0 .

2.0 Phase 2 - Detail design

On completion of Phase 1, the FEED study documents can be used for tendering for the final design phase, some (large) Engineer Procure and Construct (EPC) contractors often have the resources for combining the last phases of project execution up to and inclusive of the final project close out. However as these phases have their peculiar characteristics they are addressed as separate activities. Preparation of a detail design requires all items as listed under the FEED study of Phase 1, however systems must be further detailed. Material Requisitions (MR) for equipment and long lead items must be prepared and submitted for cost estimates, and when so desired; for purchase.

3.0 Phase 3 - Construction

During this phase the facility will be built and constructed and represents the major part of the capital investment. The construction phase can take up to 80 % of the total CAPEX. Hence good cost control and cash flow control as well as planning are essential components for success. Engineering will be limited to support activities, for performing design modifications that become apparent during construction to fit the site conditions.

4.0 Phase 4 - Start up and Commissioning

This phase should be handled with the utmost care as the system moves from a shut down mode to an operating mode whereby the safeguards often need to be bypassed. Prior to start up, all systems and equipment shall be checked for their proper functioning. Main equipment vendor representatives often are required for startup assistance. Once all systems have been checked for proper functioning, the actual start can commence.

5.0 Phase 5 - Provisional completion

After handover, depending on the contractual conditions, the end user or owner may issue the Provisional Completion Certificate taking ownership of the facility. Warranty clauses and performance guarantee conditions will now become effective.

6.0 Phase 6 - Final close out

After the expiration date of the warranty and the guarantee period, the end user/owner may issue the Final Close out Certificate, taking full ownership of the facility.