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Progress in Improving Project Management at the Department of Energy 2002 Assessment (2003) / Chapter Skim
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Appendix F: Building Flexibility into Projects to Manage Uncertainty
Pages 108-111

The Chapter Skim interface presents what we've algorithmically identified as the most significant single chunk of text within every page in the chapter.
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From page 108...
... An example could be a project manager recognizing that the cost and development of a specialized component depends on the design expertise of a particular vendor. The depletion of that vendor's capabilities could increase costs beyond the budget limits, constrain development of the component, or both.
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From page 109...
... The threat posed by these uncertainties was that if development efforts failed in either way, the project could be delayed too long to meet its deadline and would incur very high unbudgeted costs. Although LLNL had established relationships with experienced laser glass vendors, none could guarantee successful development a priori.
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From page 110...
... Based on this reasoning, DOE and LLNL contracted with two vendors to support parallel development efforts. The uncertainty about the technology's viability was resolved in early 1999, when both vendors successfully produced pilot runs of glass using a continuousmelting process.
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From page 111...
... , the major project risk is identified as "unfunded estimated project cost (EPC) owner's contingency: If Congress does not authorize an additional $435 million to cover ORP contingency allowances (includes normal estimating variability and risk allowances)
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Key Terms

  • laser glass
  • production technology
  • national ignition
  • manage uncertainty
  • ignition facility

  • alternative options
  • uncertain project
  • facility risk
  • proactive approach
  • management plan

  • glass vendors
  • successful development
  • uncertain parameters
  • parallel development
  • project planning

  • glass procurement
  • manufacturing role
  • critical uncertainties
  • unbudgeted costs
  • technology feasibility

  • objectives instead
  • flexible project
  • experienced laser
  • flexible alternatives
  • meet schedule

  • production process
  • continued monitoring
  • potential actions
  • produced pilot
  • established relationships


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