Client

A leading research university in the Southeast United Sates with multiple laboratories participating in ongoing research functions.

Challenge

Build a Project Execution Plan (PEP). The PEP defines the project scope, describes the organizational framework and overall management systems for the project, and identifies roles and responsibilities of the project participants. It also describes the formal change control process by which the Project scope, cost, schedule, budget profile, and PEP may be revised.

Solution

AMS developed a Project Execution Plan (PEP) for the management and project execution processes necessary to ensure that the project Mid-scale RI-2: National Facility for Lab-Scale Synchrotron Screening of Advanced Materials and Systems scope is completed on time and within budget.

The initial approach was to review the following Clemson documentation:  Equipment & cost estimates; Proposed lab schematic and infrastructure; Expected facility modifications; and Project description documentation.

Next an instrumentation finalization flowchart was established to understand the flow of work.  Using this information, a work breakdown structure (WBS) was developed upon which cost, schedule, and spending profiles were established.

The above information was utilized to complete the PEP including the following sections:  Executive Summary; Final WBS; Cost estimating plan & Baseline Budget; Budget contingency and Basis of Estimate; Funding Profile; Baseline Schedule and Schedule contingency; Cost/Schedule monitoring plan.   A comprehensive Risk Assessment and Management Plan was developed using the WBS as a basis for risk identification.

Benefits

A comprehensive Project Execution Plan was submitted, meeting all necessary NSF requirements for a Mid-Scale Research Infrastructure -2 as stated in NSF 23-570 Program Solicitation.  The PEP, 41 pages in length with appendices, represents a thorough knowledge of state-of-the-art Project Management processes necessary to successfully complete a project life cycle from Initiation through Closing.  Upon NSF approval, Clemson will be in a strong position to begin the construction of the AMIC Facility.  Such facility will provide efficient opportunities for universities and other research institutions to access a state-of-the-art facility offering nanoscale/atomic scale imaging of low- and high-density materials simultaneously, and in situ environmental conditions. The energy and manufacturing sectors have especially demanding needs to address these challenges.