Expanding advanced work packaging to include commissioning and startup for industrial projects
ISSN: 1471-4175
Article publication date: 1 June 2022
Issue publication date: 27 November 2023
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to present a comprehensive analysis on how the advanced work packaging (AWP) managerial paradigm could be advanced by incorporating and integrating the post-construction commissioning and startup (CSU) phases.
Design/methodology/approach
This study was implemented with the support of consolidated knowledge from industry subject matter experts and an exhaustive literature review to provide a knowledge foundation for the developments. The findings were further validated and strengthened by external subject matter experts.
Findings
A new operating system-oriented work package, systems work package (SWP), is devised with a set of definitions and models of how it relates to AWPs with three-dimensional visualizations. SWP-related constraints, key roles and responsibilities are thoroughly investigated.
Research limitations/implications
A new SWP concept would pose potential challenges for its adoption because of inherent organizational culture and hesitation to change. A systematic reorganization of existing practices is considered as a key strategy to alleviate the limitation, and short- and long-term validity of SWP is currently being investigated by organizations.
Practical implications
This research provides practical implementation strategies on CSU integration which lead to benefits including: better alignment and collaboration of stakeholders, reduced costs for associating AWPs to SWP and improved predictability.
Originality/value
AWP-related studies have primarily focused on the construction phase, with minimal integration of CSU considerations. Highlighting the importance of the philosophy “start with the end in mind,” this research describes how the AWP managerial paradigm can be expanded to include CSU, by placing a strong emphasis on understanding CSU priorities, sequences and constraints.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This research was funded by the Construction Industry Institute. The conclusions herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Construction Industry Institute. The authors would like to thank RT-364 members for their insights, input, guidance and access to project information throughout the development of this research.
Citation
O'Connor, J.T., Leite, F. and Ma, J.W. (2023), "Expanding advanced work packaging to include commissioning and startup for industrial projects", Construction Innovation, Vol. 23 No. 5, pp. 939-960. https://doi.org/10.1108/CI-09-2021-0173
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2022, Emerald Publishing Limited