Benefits and Conditions for Successful Implementation of Advanced Work Packaging in Front-End Planning and Design

Advanced work packaging (AWP) is a planned, executable process to improve project performance; it has been implemented primarily within the industrial construction sector. AWP is an example of a collaborative approach to project execution, specifically focusing on process improvements. Existing studies have focused on AWP benefits during the construction phase. However, the benefits to front-end planning and design in AWP projects have not been studied. This study evaluates the benefits of AWP during early planning and explores the conditions for achieving successful AWP implementation in design. The study draws from 14 subject matter experts and a survey of 101 industry experts representing owners, contractors, engineers, and suppliers. Results include identifying and assessing 7 benefits and 7 success conditions, including improved visibility into constraints during path of construction planning, increased need for data integrity, moving engineering hours earlier, and changing rules of credit to progress by engineering work packages. This work’s findings also include 8 recommendations that can support project stakeholders in effectively implementing AWP through aligning expectations, adequately staffing, and developing appropriate contract provisions for reporting and payment. Researchers can use the results and recommendations to inform best practices and compare processes and decisions among other delivery frameworks requiring early stakeholder integration.