TABLE OF CONTENTS This Chapter describes the major project management techniques necessary for the evaluation, planning, monitoring and control of transmission and distribution projects. It looks at the situation primarily from the point of view of the client or distribution company management. In particular the chapter explains the importance of correct definition of the work to be performed together with the need for a mature approach to the client/consultant/contractor relationship. A project definition/questionnaire is included in Appendix A of this chapter.
Engineers may feel that high engineering standards and excellence in design should be the major factors in the award of contracts. It is a fact of life that in a highly competitive environment good design is only one part of the overall project process. Another way of looking at it is that good engineering design is that which provides best value for money. Indeed even compliance with the specification may be of secondary importance if the contractor is able to offer alternative equally viable schemes with substantial cost savings. Over-specification helps no-one. Low price, whole life cost, short and certain delivery and low cost financing are also major factors leading to the success of the project from both the client s and contractor s point of view.
