Misunderstanding of third-party inspection is caused by hidden knowledge gaps and not limited to inexperienced personnel. Third-party inspection (inspection) is a strategy used by capital projects in energy and other sectors to ensure suppliers’ equipment and materials are delivered complete, … Read More
A Simple Solution for Complex Capital Projects
Companies know capital projects often cost more and take longer than expected[1]. These problems are recognized industry-wide and significant. An increasing number of projects are delivered behind schedule, beyond the cost estimate, and fail to meet expectations[2]. Unbelievably, 98% of … Read More
The Solution to the Project Communication Challenge is Hidden in Plain Sight!
Recently, I discussed the never-ending challenge of project communication with a friend, a professional who works in the oil and gas (O&G) industry. Our discussion got interesting … and quickly! The Project Communication Challenge Communicating detailed technical requirements can be … Read More
Who Doesn’t Want to Live in the 1st World? But What is it?
Once, my 12-year-old son asked me what the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd worlds are. This is what I told him. You are standing by a swimming pool on the roof of a hotel, with an ice-cold Coca-Cola. You are living … Read More
For Project Success, Say and Write What You Mean
The Project Management Institute’s report The Essential Role of Communication revealed that ineffective communication has a negative impact on project success >50% of the time. So, why make it difficult for others to understand what you mean? For example, these … Read More
What Reading is Essential for Your Career? A Glossary!
Introduction Reading is a known career advancement strategy. Self-directed reading is key to earning and maintaining professional credentials. Daily reading has many benefits including increased knowledge and reduced stress, and comprises varied approaches, such as the: Renaissance Learning method (15 … Read More
Stacking Lumber: What My Father Taught Me About the Importance of Quality Work
Like lessons from most fathers, the advice I received from my father was as influential as it was pervasive. The knowledge he passed to me affects the way I approach my work, even today and it became ubiquitous. To a … Read More
Supplier Quality Surveillance Before and After COVID-19
Inspection strategies have not changed but inspection considerations have. COVID-19 is an infectious virus that was first identified in late 2019 in Wuhan, China. Its spread has become a global pandemic. The COVID-19 virus outbreak is a human tragedy that directly … Read More
Precast Concrete Needs Alternative Inspection Methods and Resources
Inspection is part of an effective supplier quality surveillance (SQS) program that successful projects use to ensure equipment and materials are delivered complete, correct, and on-time. Occasionally, an oil & gas (O&G) project purchases precast concrete items such as bridge … Read More
Is Your Project Using the Master Keys to Success?
Words are the master key to successful communication. Communication is the master key to successful projects. According to the article What Are the Causes of Communication Failure?, three (of four) causes of communication failure are related to the use of … Read More