Graduation Assignment: Collaboration in Civil Projects

The IPM2.0-model

Introduction

In recent years, we both need and want to create more value within civil engineering projects. In addition to the primary function of the bridge, road, or dyke, a project must also address circularity, sustainability, citizen participation or climate adaptability; the list of wishes and requirements is endless.

In our view, the current Integral Project Management (IPM) model no longer meets these changing needs. Why? At its core, the IPM model is focused on managing risks rather than seizing opportunities. It’s no coincidence that the five roles in this model are "managers". Additional wishes are seen as risks to the project frameworks (planning, budget), rather than opportunities for a more valuable project. A striking example of this is the role of the Stakeholder Manager (“Omgevingsmanager”). What’s your point of view? Should we 'manage' the stakeholders in projects? Or should one of the primary focuses of a project be to develop value for them?

We developed the IPM2.0 model. Instead of five managers, it has three developers and three directors. The three developers are responsible for gathering and creating value for the end user, the external stakeholders, and the environment. The three directors ensure realism and are responsible for realizing the values within the project frameworks. This way, we achieve both project control and value creation.

Objective

The objective of the research is to determine if and under what conditions the IPM2.0 model is a valuable alternative to the existing IPM model. The exact research question will be formulated in mutual consultation. A possible breakdown into sub-questions:

1. What challenges does the current IPM model present in creating all 'values' in projects (user, external stakeholders and environment)? And, what added value does it represent in controlling the project frameworks?
2. What advantages does the IPM2.0 model offer compared to the current IPM model?
3. What obstacles are there in order to implement the IPM2.0 model in civil engineering projects?
4. What is needed to implement the IPM2.0 model?

The sub-questions can possibly be broken down by type of project/contract form.

Your profile

You match the core values of Avante:

• Pleasantly Energetic (Prettig Energiek): We are pleasantly energetic, which positively affects ourselves and the people around us.
• Boundary-Pushing (Grens Verleggend): We strive for the highest achievable goal and set the course for success.
• Confidently Optimistic (Overtuigd Optimistisch): We trust that we can handle any challenge, no matter how complex or new it is.
• Collectively Driven (Collectief Gedreven): We bring out the best in each other and ensure everyone participates and keeps up.

Furthermore, you are, like us, passionate about fundamentally changing the built environment to improve the social and sustainable impact of our sector.

Guidance / Compensation

You will be guided by an experienced Project Director from Avante and a supervisor from your university (of applied sciences).

You will receive a graduation compensation.

About Avante Bouwprocessen

Avante Bouwprocessen realizes fundamental change in the built environment.

We are a project consulting firm for complex projects in the built environment. We work for both contractors and governmental organizations, always with one goal in mind: creating value for the end user, the external stakeholders, and the environment.

What drives us every day is to see our innovative ideas come to life, either within the Flood Protection Program (HWBP), the energy transition or the multiple projects to maintain or renovate our assets (V&R-opgave). Projects we have worked on in recent years include the Oosterschelde Surge Barrier, A12 IJsselbruggen, the Maintenance Contract for the North Sea Canal, and several projects of the Central Government Real Estate Agency (Rijksvastgoedbedrijf).

Please contact our Recruiter Lisette van Cortenberghe for more information.

WhatsApp of bellen: 0682182442 or via email Lisette@avantebouwprocessen.nl