Pre-Contract Project Scoping Processes: Synthesis of Practices

Authors

Hamed Zamenian, Purdue UniversityFollow
Dulcy M. Abraham, Purdue UniversityFollow

Recommended Citation

Zamenian, H., & Abraham, D. M. (2016). Pre-contract project scoping processes: Synthesis of practices (Joint Transportation Research Program Publication No. FHWA/IN/JTRP-2016/05). West Lafayette, IN: Purdue University. https://doi.org/10.5703/1288284316192

DOI

10.5703/1288284316192

Abstract

Scoping is the process of developing a project’s objectives, need, preliminary cost estimate, and preliminary schedule based on a recognized need that the project is intended to address. This study (INDOT/JTRP SPR-3944) was launched by the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT)/Joint Transportation Program (JTRP) to develop a synthesis of scoping processes in different State Highway Agencies (SHA). The study was conducted using a qualitative exploratory approach focusing on the review of project scoping practices across different SHAs. Focused interviews with personnel from State Highway Agencies (SHA) along with the review of documents gathered during the literature search and resources provided by SHAs were the avenues used for data collection in the study.

The study focused on eleven themes for the assessment of project scoping procedures: (1) primary entity with responsibility for scoping projects, (2) timeline for scoping activities, (3) functional groups within the State Highway Agency involved in scoping, (4) cost estimation procedures, (5) application of Context Sensitive Solutions (CSS), (6) addressing maintenance needs, (7) methods of assessing scope creep, (8) tracking the quality and effectiveness of scoping processes, (9) environmental consideration in scoping processes, (10) data collection and data sharing, and (11) scoping practices which have evolved/benefited the State Highway Agency. The report presents key findings of the study and provides suggestions for further investigation by INDOT.

Report Number

FHWA/IN/JTRP-2016/05

Keywords

project scoping, pre-contract, cost estimate, scope creep, budget, maintenance, context sensitive solutions, stakeholders

SPR Number

3944

Performing Organization

Joint Transportation Research Program

Sponsoring Organization

Indiana Department of Transportation

Publisher Place

West Lafayette, Indiana

Date of this Version

2016