Successful Ways to Ensure Project Efficiency and Budget Control – Ep 039

In this episode, I talk with Sean Brune, P.E., Department Manager of Project Management at Stanley Consultants, about how to ensure project efficiency and budget control in projects. He also provides great advice for engineers looking to transition into project management. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Sean: How do consulting engineering firms assist utility clients in maintaining project efficiency and budgets? Could you please explain the reasons behind the lack of regulation and price speculation in many unregulated companies? What are the typical challenges or pitfalls you encounter in the utility industry? What would you say is the average duration of the permitting process for the projects you've worked on? What sets Stanley apart in terms of its approach, and how does this contribute value to your clients? Have you observed any innovative project management strategies or initiatives that have positively influenced project efficiency and success? For engineers aiming to transition into project management, what essential foundational skills do you believe are crucial for a successful shift? Can a project manager effectively lead and delegate without strong communication skills? How can a project manager build trust and understanding for open communication and collaboration among team members? What advice would you give to those aspiring to become successful project managers? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Successful Ways to Ensure Project Efficiency and Budget Control: Stanley's unique project management expertise in the utility industry ensures projects stay on budget. Their specialized managers work together, combining proactive risk management and constant communication to optimize budget allocation across the board. They're a key partner for utilities aiming to meet their budget goals. Utilities are mostly regulated monopolies for stability, but there's a push for a free market in some places like Texas. Past issues during a winter storm showed the downsides, causing power problems and high bills. Efforts to prevent such problems are ongoing, but the regulated monopoly model is crucial for consistency. Balancing market freedom with regulation is essential. Large projects face challenges in land acquisition and permitting, dealing with diverse landowners and unpredictable timelines. Environmental concerns, like wildlife seasons in places like Colorado, complicate scheduling. Proactive planning and team expertise are crucial to navigate these challenges effectively and avoid fines. Adjusting plans as new information emerges is vital for successful project management. Getting permits, especially for stormwater, is a mixed experience. State approvals are usually quicker, but local municipalities or specific counties can take up to a year. It depends on the jurisdiction and its requirements, making it unpredictable and challenging to plan for. Adaptability is key in navigating these varying approval times. Stanley employs a tailored project delivery model (PDM) for their design engineering projects, consisting of four stages: pursuit, planning, execution, and closeout. This streamlined approach ensures efficient project management, offering clear insights for budget and timeline control. The PDM's adaptability facilitates quick decision-making, enhancing overall project success and monitoring. At Stanley, the tools embedded in the PDMA are a game-changer for project management. From dynamic spreadsheets to online applications and the upcoming integration of Power BI, these tools empower project managers to make informed decisions efficiently.