I have written before about the benefits of using dependency modelling as a tool for project management and I think the case is particularly strong for large-scale office refurbishments.
Many such projects are done floor by floor, with staff relocated as the refurbishment proceeds. It can be a very long procedure from start to finish, depending on the scale of the project.
Greater requirement for risk management
In terms of project management, probably the lynch pin at the heart of a successful refurbishment, there are many great packages out there that support project teams. However, I believe there are certain projects where the risk management element is different and larger.
In an office refurbishment, the project risks are not just around bringing things in on time and to budget. They also include statutory compliance, particularly health and safety, energy efficiency and equalities provision for those with disabilities, as well as IT, engineering and building infrastructure. Not to mention the significant number of suppliers that can be involved in the project.
What benefits dependency modelling can bring
I think the single greatest advantage of dependency modelling over a project planning tool is that dependency models can map interdependencies in a very detailed and systematic way, highlighting impacts that may not have been realised, especially with a diverse project and supplier team.
In the case of a large project, modelling the processes, identifying the risks and agreeing escalation points will be an exercise that can be used for every floor of the refurbishment, making the time invested well spent, as this will save time and possibly money over the entire project.
The models will incorporate the site survey and designs, as well as cabling and wiring plans – so the builders know where not to drill!
Dependency modelling software generally excels at automatically generating alerts, workflows, escalation points, approval processes, because these have been pre-identified and criteria set. It avoids the potential for human area, for someone to either miss something or not fully appreciate the significance.
Dependency modelling software also normally allows the storage of documents, photos, videos, plans, etc. with the relevant areas of the model, making it easy for any project manager to quickly find exactly what they need. It is far more effective that an intranet in my opinion.
First-hand experience
I know dependency modelling works for building refurbishments – from first-hand experience. A major global bank was refurbishing their corporate HQ on Wall Street, floor by floor. The first six floors were a nightmare – their words not ours! They brought in Riskenomics to model the whole process for the rest of the building. The remaining floors were completed on time and on budget, with far less stress.
All thanks to thoroughly modelling the dependencies to create a robust project plan!
