CALL FOR PAPERS FOR 2017
A majority of Sessions are reserved for CPM and Project Management Theory, Software Tutorials and Select Demonstrations, and other invited Speakers. A limited number of Sessions are available for Consultants to teach innovative means and methods and for software vendors to demonstrate new or improved products. A limited number of Project Showcase Sessions are also available. Members of the construction community are invited to submit abstracts describing how YOUR project delivery was improved by superior CPM scheduling and project controls. Please email your abstract to info@constructioncpm.com.
ABSTRACTS FOR 2017
For an Overview of 2017 Sessions, click here
To view 2016 Abstracts, click here For an Overview of 2016 Sessions, click here
To view 2015 Abstracts, click here For an Overview of 2015 Sessions, click here
To view 2014 Abstracts, click here To view 2013 Abstracts, click here
To view 2012 Abstracts, click here To view 2011 Abstracts, click here
Wednesday, 8:00 AM to 9:15 AM -- 75 minute session -- main auditorium
WED00 - Welcome by Fred Plotnick and Jim O'Brien -- and Opening Keynote Session:
WHY We need technical SOCIETIES – and WHY you should belong by John Livengood President AACE
The professional/technical societies many of us belong to, such as ASCE, CMAA and AACE all aim to assist their members by three major means: (1) development and
maintenance of technical knowledge; (2) education and training of current and future members; and (3) networking opportunities. The advent of the internet has made the
need for such associations even more essential. Learn more about how and why this is so critical.
Wednesday, 9:45 AM to 11:00 AM -- 75 minute session
WED11 - Oracle Primavera's Solution for Engineering & Construction
Come learn about Oracle Primavera's commitment, focus and discipline to engineering and construction solutions. A comprehensive approach to address the big and
complex as well as the small and simple. Topics will include:
- Overview of total industry solution offering
- Integrating Cost & Schedule
- Changing the game - from creation to status collection to reporting
Presented by Garrett E. Harley, director engineering and construction strategy
WED12 - Deltek Open Plan Download to 1st Update
This session will lead attendees from download of Open Plan software from Deltek's website, or from the link provided in the back of of the text
CPM in Construction Management, 8th Edition, to delivery of the first update
report to management of the Contractor and the Owner.
Presented by Rob Edwards
WED13 - Microsoft Project for Construction A "How to Use" Tutorial
Love it or hate it, Microsoft Project (MSP) CPM scheduling software is here to stay. Many construction contracts are now mandating its use. Most people using MSP on
construction projects find that MSP is fine for planning the work but very difficult to use when maintaining the status and accurately forecasting project completion.
The secret of using MS Project is to understand how it works ‘under the hood’. There is a right way and a wrong way to update a MS Project schedule. Once you know
this, you can ‘make’ MSP properly reflect complicated status including out-of-sequence progress resembling Retained Logic. This advanced presentation will explain
how to best use MSP in place of P6 or other more status-oriented scheduling software.
Presented by Ron Winter, PSP,
author of Schedule Analyzer Software.
WED14 - Introduction to Phoenix Project Planner
Phoenix Project Manager is a project-focused CPM scheduling tool for the construction, energy and architecture/engineering markets.
In this session, Jay Poulsen, President of Phoenix Project Management, will discuss the use of Phoenix Project Manager to create and maintain project
schedules, and how to migrate your current scheduling efforts from Primavera or other enterprise platforms to Phoenix. Mr. Poulsen will also discuss the future
development direction of Phoenix Project Manager.
For more information: Phoenix Project Manager.
WED15 - From Scheduling to True Planning – Introducing BASIS
This presentation introduces a new solution that advances organizations from basic scheduling to true planning. BASIS promotes a knowledge-driven planning approach
that captures domain expert feedback, consensus across multiple project stakeholders and validation against an organization’s knowledge base resident in the
application. In addition, BASIS is the first project management application to harness advances in AI and Machine Learning to drive further efficiency and accuracy
into plan development. The net result is a calibrated and realistic project plan ready for execution. Complimenting your existing CPM, schedule diagnostics and risk
management tools such as Primavera P6, Oracle Risk Analysis (f.k.a. Pertmaster), Acumen Fuse and Acumen Risk, BASIS provides the missing link towards establishing the
perfect plan. Presented by Dr. Dan Patterson, PMP
WED16 - Managing Schedule Change
Schedule change management includes any change to the project scope of work: or any deviation, performance trend or change that affects the approved or baseline
project time management plan. This presentation will focus on discussion of potential impacts to the schedule and implementation of an effective schedule change
management process that benefits both the project owner and the project team. Presented by Ted Douglas, CCP, PSP, FAACE, Principal of ACTPMA, LLC Consulting.
WED18 - Oracle Primavera One-on-One Clinic
Two 30 minute sessions to clinic with a representative from CBA, a Oracle Primavera Partner, for One-on-One assistance.
Sign up when you register or at
the conference. Click here to register.
Wednesday, 11:10 AM to 12:25 PM -- 75 minute session
WED21 - Schedule Development Using P6 Professional Download to 1st Report
This session will lead attendees from download of Primavera P6 software from Oracle's website to delivery of the first report to management of the Contractor and
the Owner. This session is taught by two veteran users of P6™, Hannah Schumacher, Managing Consultant for Hill International (www.hillintl.com)
and Charlie Jackson, Vice President of Project Life Span, LLC.
Many Contract Documents are now requiring the use of the latest version of Primavera software (P6™) due to its enterprise capabilities and its use of latest
technologies including the capabilities to interact other software applications; therefore it is important for the Scheduler to understand how to use this
software most efficiently in their battle to complete their projects in a timely manner.
Primavera’s latest release of P6™ contains many features that can assist in developing schedules quickly and efficiently. However, a new or in-experienced user
would be overwhelmed in the struggle to prepare the schedule using P6™ and these advanced features without proper training or “Basic Training”.
This session will focus on the presenters’ experiences and their lessons learned regarding the effective use of P6 ™ in the schedule development process as they
apply to the Planning and Scheduling development processes. The Scheduler should be able to apply the implementation and execution “Lessons Learned” outlined in
this presentation to develop schedules quickly and efficiently using P6™.
WED22 - Deltek Acumen Fuse: The Truth about Schedule Quality
The first step towards improving project success is building a structurally sound and reliable schedule. This presentation will walk through the
diagnostics available to assess schedule quality and present initiatives you can implement for avoiding the pitfalls common to the practice of project
scheduling. Hear how Deltek Acumen Fuse, a schedule diagnostics tool that integrates directly with all major scheduling tools, helps validate project and
portfolio schedule quality and provides unparalleled insight through detailed project analysis. See the industry-proven standards and user-defined metrics in
Fuse that help establish the high-quality schedule required for project success.
Presented by Tom Polen
WED23 -Advanced Schedule Logic Analysis for Microsoft Project
Complex sequencing logic can be difficult to extract and display in Microsoft Project, especially when constraints, variable calendars, and resource leveling
complicate Project’s Slack (Float) calculations. So we wrote our own Add-In to make Project sing like a rock star. BPC Logic Filter started as a lightweight tool to
show only logically-connected tasks. Over the years we’ve added advanced features to focus on Driving Relationships, Project Longest Path, Multiple Float Paths,
Driving Path Drag, and – most recently – Resource Leveling Drivers. This last feature identifies the Resource Constrained Critical Path for any resource-leveled
schedule in MS Project. We’ve also added some graphical highlighting options to polish up the output.
Presented by Thomas Boyle, PE, PMP, PSP, of boyleprojectconsulting.
WED24 - Introduction to Asta Powerproject Schedule Tool for Planners
See how Asta Powerproject makes scheduling easier and more cost effective.
Find out why Asta Powerproject is being adopted throughout the US by construction companies of all sizes. Hear how firms like Saunders Construction, Encore Electric
and PCS have improved performance, gained widespread use and reduced training costs by turning to Asta Powerproject. All, while also saving on license costs. Asta
Powerproject is the only construction-specific scheduling software offered with concurrent licensing which allows multiple users on a team to share one license.
We’ll show you how innovative features like Asta Powerproject’s unique “drag & drop” functionality make scheduling faster and more enjoyable. Come see how easy Asta
Powerproject is to learn and use, how it’s powerful features were built with you in mind, and how it performs more reliably than other scheduling options everyday…all
over the world. Presented by Mary Williams, Projects Analytics - Asta Authorized Reseller & Trainer
WED25 - Introduction to Spider Project Software
Spider Project is a powerful professional project management software that contains everything useful for good project and portfolio management. It supports
all traditional methods and tools, and offers unique approaches and functions that have no analogues in other software packages. Used in 34 countries Spider
Project is the only PM software that optimizes resource, cost, and material constrained schedules and budgets for projects and portfolios.
Presented by Vladimir Liberzon
WED26 - Schedule Health - Killing Project Predictability
It seems recently, more and more schedules are poorly built, neglecting what would be considered “best practices” and causing confidence in meeting schedule
dates to drop off significantly. There are some key elements defeating or overriding the intelligence our current software produces turning the CPM schedule
into nothing more than a cartoon on a sheet of paper and into nothing resembling CPM at all. To let our scheduling tools work properly, we must get back to basics
and build good, logically driven schedules for the PMs and project teams to have confidence in what the CPM schedule tells us is accurate and predictable.
In this presentation, the author, an experienced P6 scheduler and risk analysis consultant will review and discuss these key elements driving Project Managers
away from the project schedule and creating their own. Using Primavera P6, Acumen Fuse and Acumen Risk Metrics, these issues can be identified quickly and to
help develop a proper, healthy schedule and restore confidence in the project schedule dates and logic. Presented by Darryl Townsend of DRMcNatty.
Wednesday, 12:30 PM to 1:50 PM -- Lunch
Wednesday, 2:00 PM to 3:15 PM -- 75 minute session
WED31 - Schedule Updating Using P6 Professional NTP to 1st Update Report
This session will lead attendees in the proper use of Oracle Primavera P6 EPPM from Notice-to-Proceed (or acceptance of the initial baseline schedule)
to delivery of the first update report to management of the Contractor and the Owner. This session is taught by two veteran users of P6™,
Hannah Schumacher, Managing Consultant for Hill International (www.hillintl.com) and
Charlie Jackson, Vice President of Project Life Span, LLC.
Many Contract Documents are now requiring the use of the latest version of Primavera software (P6™) due to its enterprise capabilities and its use of latest
technologies including the capabilities to interact other software applications; therefore it is important for the Scheduler to understand how to use this
software most efficiently in their battle to complete their projects in a timely manner.
Primavera’s latest release of P6™ contains many features that can assist in developing schedules quickly and efficiently. However, a new or in-experienced user
would be overwhelmed in the struggle to prepare the schedule using P6™ and these advanced features without proper training or “Basic Training”.
This session will focus on the presenters’ experiences and their lessons learned regarding the effective use of P6 ™ in the schedule development process as they
apply to the Planning and Scheduling development processes. The Scheduler should be able to apply the implementation and execution “Lessons Learned” outlined in
this presentation to develop schedules quickly and efficiently using P6™.
WED32 - Deltek Acumen Risk: The Rewards of Schedule Risk Analysis
CPM schedules are excellent at providing a completion forecast based on the planned duration and sequence of work. However, they fall short in accounting
for external risk events – those discrete events that have an impact on a project execution teams' ability to execute the plan. This presentation focuses on
the second step towards improving project maturity: identifying and reducing project risk exposure through project risk analysis. Learn best practices when
running a schedule or cost risk analysis and hear how Deltek Acumen Risk and Risk book combine the accuracy of Monte-Carlo risk analysis with a
straightforward, team-oriented user experience to simplify this process.
Presented by Tom Polen
WED33 - EV in a War Zone: Understanding Earned Value & How to apply it
“Earned Value” is a buzz term that is often used to install a sense of confidence in a project, but also is often miss-used and misunderstood. This discussion will
help understand the difference between the system (EVMS), the management approach (EVM), and the variable (EV) and how the correct application truly can increase your
confidence in the successful delivery of a project. We will also discuss a Case Study: “EVM in a War Zone” to see how sound Earned Value Management practices were
applied to manage a $1.5B / year project during the height of the 2009/2010 troop surge in the Middle East. Presented by Erik Tuma, Granite Construction.
WED34 - Introduction to Micro Planner X-Pert v3.5.1
For 35 years Micro Planning International (MPI) has provided full service project management to clients worldwide. MICROPLANNER X-Pert has been the project
management software which others are judged. A high performance package making planning and management easy for both novice and power users alike. X-PERT for Windows
is a Critical Path Logic network based product for either ADM and /or PDM format, and provides a host of project planning and scheduling features, Resource Scheduling,
Earned Value Performance, Gantt and Project Cost Controls, all easier to use than many packages.
Presented by Patrick Weaver PMI-SP, on behalf of Raphael M Dua MACS PCP, General Manager Micro Planning International Asia Pacific Pty Ltd.
WED35 - NetPoint Metrics Capabilities
Without a framework, such as the Core Traits of a Reliable Schedule, the metrics exercise lacks credibility because one simply wanders from dashboard dial to
indicator without understanding the schedule holistically. Recently PMA Consultants LLC published, Core Traits of a Reliable Schedule. It was an eighteen month effort
with over 20 contributing authors. As a contributing author I had the opportunity to work with our top scheduling talent from around the country in developing a
framework with which a high quality reliable schedule can be understood. Led by Dr. Gui Ponce de Leon, PhD, PE, PMP, LEEDAP, we worked together to hash out and perfect
a detailed and comprehensive approach to creating, progressing, and analyzing a critical path schedule. From these Core 20 traits we drill down to a detailed
explanation of what each trait means, and what the impact to the quality of the schedule will be if the trait is not properly adhered to. This is the guiding framework
for the new schedule metrics functionality in NetPoint. Presented by Timothy Deane Mather, PMP
WED36 - BIM to Field: Intelligent Workflows Improving Schedules and Reducing Re-work with Laser Scanning and Robotic Layout
Trimble will be demonstrating how to utilize advanced technology tools in the construction industry to improve your quality and speed of placement in the field to
improve your schedules. Accuracy and quality control are married together with 3D BIM or traditional 2D workflows to ensure project tolerances with the use of Robotic
Total Stations and 3D Laser scanners. We will be walking you through the construction process to show you how new methods of data collection will revolutionize the
product placement, project schedule, as-built collection and quality control verifications of any project.
Wednesday, 3:35 PM to 4:50 PM -- 75 minute session
WED41 - P6 File Corruption
The subject of P6 File Corruption is a multi-faceted issue involving both reality and perception. Practically
every P6 scheduler and claims consultant will, at some time, ask themselves if they are seeing this fault
occurring. Real instances of corrupt data in the P6 database can be identified and some possible solutions
sometimes exist. In other cases, the information only appears to be corrupt due to P6’s complexity. In these
cases, a scheduler needs to be armed with a list of potential causes for unusual occurrences.
Two PSP certified schedulers who are also IT experts present this unique paper on the subject of P6 File
Corruption. They will explain why this can happen and show examples of such occurrences. Sometimes, a solution
is present. Other times, the solution is missing but at least the first step in solving the problem is to
identity the cause.
Presented by Ron
Winter, PSP, author of Schedule Analyzer Software; and Marina Sominsky, PSP, PMP, EIT
WED42 - Five Steps to Schedule Maturity with Deltek Acumen
Think of project planning as a three-legged stool. We've already improved the quality of our schedule (leg 1), improved accuracy by accounting for risk
(leg 2), now we'll take a look at the third key element to successful project planning: accurate resource planning. A resource loaded schedule is the perfect
marriage between the work required to complete the project and the resources needed to complete the work. This presentation focuses on best practices for
achieving this harmony and why it's important to remove the traditional silos between cost forecasting and scheduling and learn how Deltek Cobra and PM
Compass can make this a reality!
Presented by Tom Polen
WED43 - Top Ten Things I Learned about Scheduling in an Outage
What happens when a rigorously developed CPM schedule faces the turbulence, volume, and force of work in a power plant outage? Things break! This presentation exposes
gaps in traditional CPM practice through the lens of lessons learned in an outage. Perhaps, projects don’t need better schedules, but rather, better project stories.
Presented by Charlie Dunn of DPR Construction
WED44 - Asta Powerproject BIM Functions
Bringing 4D planning within affordable reach within one applica¬tion.
See how Asta Powerproject incorporates Building Information Modelling (BIM) features to enable 4D planning; drive greater collaboration; and deliver communication,
time and efficiency benefits. Over 50% of the value of BIM is used during scheduling. Asta Powerproject BIM delivers on that promise with an easy way for users and
their clients to truly visualize project status in 3D against the schedule and plan corrective measures if the project is falling behind. We will show you how you can
link project plans and interactive 3D models in a single application so that BIM can become a usable tool for everyone – not just an expensive tool for a few
specialists. Presented by Megan DePoty, Elecosoft
WED45 - Planning Planet Guild Town Hall
Q & A on Planning Planet's Guild and Guidelines
WED46 - CPM: Tool or Sword & Shield - Debate: Owner v Contractor
The CPM schedule is frequently perceived not as a tool to manage a project, but as a sword to attack and a shield to defend during disputes between Owners and
Contractors. This perception comes to light during the baseline schedule review and approval process, when issues about the interpretation of the schedule
specification requirements, sequestration of float, unbalanced cost and resource loading and other aspects of the schedule are out on the table. This session will
feature an Owner’s Representative and a Contractor Scheduling Manager discussing the issues which arise during schedule development, review and approval, highlighting
the basis and the reasons for this initial mistrust between Owners and Contractors. Although presented as a debate, the goal of this session is not to determine a
winner, but to reach agreement on shared goals and viable solutions that benefit both parties and make the CPM schedule a tool, not a contest between Owner and
Contractor.
Presented by John Orr, Senior Scheduler, AECOM and Jeff Milo, Senior Planner/Scheduler, Brasfield & Gorrie
Thursday, 8:00 AM to 9:15 AM -- 75 minute session -- main auditorium
THU00 - Thursday Keynote Sessions
Keynote on State of CPM Scheduling by Fred Plotnick
CPM was created in 1956. Supported by terminal to mainframe computing in 1970s. Supported by personal computing in 1980s. Supported by laptop to home office servers
in 2000s. Supported "in the cloud" with tablet terminals to mainframe server farms in the 2010s. How are needs of end users being addressed? How can we professionals
best serve our employers and clients with the current tools provided?
and
Keynote on Industry's Need for Schedulers by Al Landes of AGC
The owner's specification typically tells the Scheduler what must be submitted. But does this minimum best serve the contractor? Part of the problem is to teach
the Scheduler to teach the contractor employer or client what more can be provided at little or no extra cost. The Scheduler is part of the management team. We
expect you to act like Management.
Thursday, 9:45 AM to 11:00 AM -- 75 minute session
THU11 - Litigation Track Keynote - Andrew Ness
on the interaction of law and scheduling on a time-centric construction project
THU12 - Integrating Procore and scheduling software
abstract TBD
THU13 - Advances in Schedule Risk Analysis
During this session we will review current risk analysis techniques and discuss the pros and cons of approaches to uncertainty assessment and the use of risk
registers. Taking it a step further, we will dive into how to make these techniques more effective in assessing true risk exposure on your projects. We will conclude
with a thought-provoking examination of new cutting edge techniques that make risk analysis an even more useful tool for accurately predicting project outcomes.
Presented by Dr. Dan Patterson, PMP
THU14 - COBRA for Schedulers
Simplify with Cobra 8.0. Managing costs and measuring Earned Value (EV) doesn’t have to be complicated. Simplify your processes today with Deltek Cobra, the industry’s
leading cost and earned value management system. Join us for an interactive session as we review the latest release of the robust, easy-to-use system, and discover how
you can improve project delivery while still maintaining compliance with rigorous government standards.
Presented by Dan Demangos, Advanced Solution Architect.
THU15 - Dengenis on Synchro 4D BIM
Twenty percent of Construction CPM Conference attendees use Synchro software for their complex projects. Join Tom to find out why – and how to use this tool.
THU16 - Reviewing the CPM Spec for a GSA Project
The Federal Government, and particularly the General Services Administration (GSA), has focused significant attention in the recent years on improving its schedule
oversight and management functions in the face of a history of projects that have experienced significant delay, cost overruns, claims and disputes. This has included
the implementation of revised Division 1 Specifications for scheduling, resource loading, monitoring of actual manpower expenditures against the approved baseline
schedule, and proof of delay and time extensions. This session will provide an overview of the CPM scheduling and proof of Delay requirements under a recent GSA
project that employed the revised Section 013200 – Division 1 Specifications. Presented by Mark Anderson of Warner Construction Consultants
Thursday, 11:10 AM to 12:25 PM -- 75 minute session
THU21 - Construction Contracts and Dispute Resolution 101
The lead up to the actual construction of a building or other project should be all about the construction contract – a document that too often gets short shrift
while the parties involved are wrapped up in their own excitement concerning the arrival of the new work. In this presentation, we examine key construction contract
clauses and the concept of drafting construction contracts which adequately take into account the possibility of disagreements on the job – and possibly a breach of
the agreement. In connection with the foregoing, we will dive into the litigation, arbitration and mediation processes, and how each of those factor in to resolving
project disputes
Presented by Dan Lund of COATS ROSE www.coatsrose.com
THU22 - XER vs. XML: Tradition vs. Data Integrity
When Importing/Exporting files into Primavera P6, it is necessary to understand the type of information that is being brought into the database. An“XER” file
is a standard (proprietary), P6 file that allows users to transfer project files between P6 databases and some other applications. With Oracle moving more
functionality to EPPM (Web), the “XML” Import/Export method was leveraged to provide more Security, Stability & Flexibility when using P6.
In this presentation, we will review options available in XML Importing/Exporting in P6 Professional, as compared to “XER” that traditionalists may not know.
Presented by Dan Beck, DRMcNatty& Associates, Inc.
THU23 - TBD
THU24 - Cost Loading Rules for USACE's QCS/RMS
Cost loading a schedule for USACE’s QCS/RMS is often a source of much misunderstanding and frustration on the part of the project team and scheduler. An understanding
of the reasons and requirements for cost loading a schedule to support QCS/RMS is of great help. Simply put; understanding the data and structure of the SDEF File is
the first step; understanding the reason for cost loading the schedule is the second reason to understand the SDEF File. The bottom line is; if you want to be paid for
the work performed then you need to cost load your schedule, that is, your schedule becomes the Schedule of Values (SOV) forming the basis of your monthly progress
payments. This session will, provide a basic understanding of the requirements for cost loading a schedule and an understanding of the data in the SDEF File that will
allow you to get paid.
Presented by David Long, CB&I Federal Services, LLC
THU25 - Enhanced Resource Planning
How a few resource planning improvements you can include in your schedule model can get you to better PDM models. No new theories, just implementation of some schedule
refinements you most probably are required to do manually when they can be automated. It is easy, logical and predictable.
Presented by Rafael Davila and Vladimir Liberzon.
THU26 - Synchro Case Study
How a Real Time Machine is Improving the Future of a Hospital Project
This interactive session will provide participants with a hands-on demonstration of how Synchro is currently being utilized to identify and solve future issues on a
new hospital project in Charleston, SC. We will examine real 4D examples and identify the issues together. Participants will also have the opportunity to test out The
Time Machine; a brand-new hardware interface that enables any stakeholder to intuitively navigate live 4D models. With any remaining time, we will demonstrate upcoming
Synchro software improvements and get your feedback and ideas for new features and improvements. This discussion will be led by Steve Moore, PMP, PSP, PMI-SP, LEED AP,
of Robins & Morton.
Thursday, 12:30 PM to 1:50 PM -- Lunch
Thursday, 2:00 PM to 3:15 PM -- 75 minute session
THU31 - A CRYSTAL BALL - Early Warning Signs of Claims & Disputes
Jim Zack is retiring. But he will share the best of his research with us at CCC17.
“What are the early warning signs of claims and disputes?” While the question seems very basic, it is a valid question and one we found has not often been addressed
in literature. From the perspective of construction claims consultants, who are typically brought on board near the end or even after completion of a project, the
early warning signs of a dispute are clear. Of course, looking back on a project at what actually occurred and when, is pure hindsight. And, as the old adage goes,
“Hindsight is always 20/20.”
THU32 - Ron Winter on The Inner Workings of P6 - P6 Durations and Dates
It is essential to understand the underlying structural format of P6 software before delving into its functions. It forms the basis and limitations of how P6
presents its calculations. Expert P6 users must first understand the basis and limitations of how P6 handles durations and dates.
Presented by Ron Winter, PSP,
author of Schedule Analyzer Software.
THU33 - Spider Project Risk Simulation and Management Technique
Reliable plans can be created only taking into account project risks. In this presentation we will discuss the problems of proper risk simulation and Spider
Project unique risk simulation and management techniques. Spider Project is the only software that simulates risks and uncertainty taking into account all
project constraints and expected management responses to project events.
Presented by Victoria Shavyrina and Vladimir Liberzon
THU34 - I’m Rejecting Your Schedule, and Here’s Why
The Chief of Project Controls for NYC Environmental Protection will discuss the top reasons for rejecting Contractor submitted schedules and updates. The owner wants
a schedule that can be used as a communication tool. Many times there are layers of reporting above the owner’s representative at the project and they are not
sympathetic to a project that has been reporting on time performance to suddenly elevated as a late project. In this session the presenter will show common mistakes
and how to avoid them, as well as discuss why the owner can’t accept a schedule with these mistakes.
Presented by Tom Long, NYC Environmental Protection
THU35 - TILOS Case Study
TILOS is a powerful, feature rich, distance-based planning tool than can be used for all infrastructure projects. TILOS is just one of several products in the Trimble
Civil Software Continuum. Of particular note is the ability to import heavy civil volumetric cut and fill data from Trimble's BC-HCE. This session will focus on the
Polsen Bypass case study to illustrate how Trimble Quantm is used to select an optimal corridor and develop a 3D model to push into Trimble Business Center to
calculate mass haul volumes and locations. This cut and fill data can be imported into TILOS to create a workable mass haul plan utilizing various methods (scraper,
truck, etc) based on haul distance and cycle time to calculate resources required for these activities. The integration of the tools and data demonstrates the
effective interfacing in developing an optimized linear plan based on the engineering information. Presented by Lorne Duncan.
THU36 - Box-Out Schedules Regain Contractor Focus
A construction schedule should represent the contractor’s plan to perform the work. Today, many specifications force contractors into a situation where the schedule
is no longer a planning tool and instead becomes merely a distraction. When a project experiences inordinate “changes” a technique called “Box-Out” can be used in
order to isolate those impacting issues from the overall progression of work allowing progress to be measured for the non-impacted activities.
Presented by Ricky Benefield, PSP of Brasfield & Gorrie
and Axel Bolvig, III of the Bradley law firm
Thursday, 3:35 PM to 4:50 PM -- 75 minute session
THU41 - Plotnick on Analysis of Delay and Disruption
The industry bible, CPM in Construction Management by James J O'Brien and Fredric L Plotnick, describes a protocol for analysis of delay or disruption on a
project. The methodology has been honed over the years to provide a result neutral analysis where opposing practitioners should obtain very similar findings on cause
and quantum of delay, leaving to other experts and attorneys to argue responsibility. Published, peer reviewed repeatedly, updated based upon peer review comments,
and cited in many specifications, this protocol is a gold standard for preparation, presentation and review of a claim. Come to this session to walk through the
methodology.
THU42 - Ron Winter on The Inner Workings of P6 - Understanding P6 Calculations
Oracle/Primavera P6 and EPPM software have many advanced CPM functions. This updated presentation will cover the basis for these functions and well as the options
available. Of special interest are the detailed explanation of the inner workings of both the longest path calculation and the Multiple Critical Paths functions.
Presented by Ron Winter, PSP,
author of Schedule Analyzer Software.
THU43 - Risky Project Project Risk Analysis and Risk Management Software
RiskyProject is integrated project risk management and risk analysis software. RiskyProject facilitates all steps of project risk management process: risk
identification, analysis, mitigation and response planning, and risk communication. RiskyProject performs both qualitative and quantitative risk analysis. It performs
schedule and cost risk analysis using Monte Carlo simulations. RiskyProject’s risk register includes all information about risks. These risks can be assigned to
project schedule and used in risk analysis.
Presented by Lev Virine of Risky Project
THU44 - Why PennDOT Chose ASTA
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is one of the largest DOTs in the nation in terms of its highway and bridge construction program. Come to this
session to find out PennDOT’s approach to project scheduling. Highlights of this session will include what led the Department to Asta Powerproject, the implementation
process, PennDOT’s scheduling policies and procedures, and lastly how PennDOT is using Asta Powerproject. Presented by Kelly M. Barber, P.E., Acting Section Chief and
Alex Maliniak, Department Scheduler, of the Project Schedules, Specifications and Constructability Section, Bureau of Project Delivery
THU45 - Resource Constrained Scheduling Capabilities of PM Software
Project management packages have different capacities to model real life resource constrained scenarios, use different algorithms for resource constrained
scheduling, and calculate different schedules for the same projects. In this presentation we will discuss main activity, resource and assignment properties
and project constraints that shall be modelled by project scheduling software, and resource constrained scheduling capabilities of popular scheduling tools.
Presented by Evgeny Zorin and Vladimir Liberzon
THU46 - The Ten Biggest Lies In Project Controls
Project Team members are not always completely truthful in their assessment of a project’s status. The untruths range from scheduling issues to the final indicated
project costs and everything in between, with perspectives from knowingly telling a lie to really believing that it’s true.
The authors will discuss ten biggest lies that are told in Project Controls today and how to recognize and confirm that each is in fact an untruth. In addition to
the identification, the session will also discuss proactive actions to mitigate the problems related to the falsehoods, using lessons learned from project controls
and forensic analysis/dispute resolution. With the authors’ combined over 70 years of experience on both the Contractor and Owner teams, the session should be
entertaining and informative.
Presented by Chris Carson and
Glen Palmer
Friday, 8:00 AM to 9:15 AM
FRI01 - Keynote Session - Mock Trial 2017
-- 160 minute double session
Judge Marshall's court is again in session for this year's Mock Trial presentation. So top off your cup of coffee, be seated, and enjoy the show! Judge Marshall
will teach the LAW. Two attorneys, renown for international and domestic construction litigation, will be providing examples of trial techniques, setting traps for
unwary experts. Two experts will be providing examples of bad and good behavior. One fact witness with actual knowledge will entertain as he provides the facts of the
case to Judge Marshall and the jury (you!)
FRI03 - Admin Tips & Tricks for P6, CM and BI Publisher
This session will provide technical considerations and setups for BI Publisher for CM14. In addition, you will learn tips and tricks on how to create CM14 reports
using the BI Publisher web interface and the BI Publisher word plug-in. If you are person responsible for configuring reports for Primavera CM14 and EPPM, you will
discover the setup, reports and functionality are very different. Although this session will focus on CM14, the differences between them will be presented.
Presented by Maha Rifai Harrison, PMP, LEED AP, Manager, System Solutions / Information Technology for
FRI04 - Utilizing Primavera Unifier with the Provided Templates
In this session you will see the templates that come out-of-the-box with Primavera Unifier. We will look at the pros and cons to the pre-built business processes and
how to utilize them the best you can and as a springboard to your specific configuration. Presented by Steve Kelly of Foresee Consulting
FRI05 - TBD
FRI06 - TBD
Friday, 9:25 AM to 10:40 AM
FRI13 - The Critical Path Definition Revisited
The critical path has always been defined as the longest path on a network from start to finish. Different definitions added more verbiage to make it clearer or more
inclusive of different scenarios but it is not as simple as we may think. While the contractor define activities’ durations based on “work days”, the contract specify
the project duration based on calendar days. Reconciling between work and calendar days is just one factor that must be considered in defining the critical path in
construction logic networks. Other factors include, but not limited to, lags; type of logical relationships; calendars; constraints; resources; and risk.
This presentation poses more questions than answers. It is an attempt to raise awareness about this issue and the flaws in current definitions of the critical path,
with an attempt to help in the right direction. Presented by Dr. Saleh A. Mubarak
FRI14 - Trimble Prolog Converge Document Control and Collaboration
The ability to manage the trove of documents that are generated on a typical construction project is directly related to the success of the project. Being able to
access accurate project documents is also helpful for historical purposes and in the unfortunate event of a claim.
For more than 20 years Prolog has been the industry’s choice, by far, for a comprehensive, adaptable project management system. Trimble Prolog Converge provides a
platform to manage all the different pieces necessary for a successful project. Converge allows project stakeholders to collaborate seamlessly, which saves a lot of
communication time and helps keep teams on the same page and projects on track.
Presented by Dan Bentil of BuildingPoint Florida.
FRI15 - Jointly Leverage Unifier & P6 from Project Conception to Company Forecasting
Grab a seat at the table and get a firsthand view into how you can improve your company’s financial management with the joint implementation of Primavera Unifier and
P6 as an Enterprise Solution. In this session you will get a view into how project planning and performance is tracked, how P6 can drive forecast in Unifier, then how
the data can be directly reflected in company level forecasting eliminating the need for duplicate data entry and side sheets/workbooks.
Speaker: Chad Brady, Foresee Consulting
FRI16 - Virtual Reality and 4D - Immersive Construction Schedule Optimization
4D scheduling and planning tools can be highly technical and sophisticated, but their true value can only be realized if their implementation translates directly into
tangible efficiencies, improvements and time and cost savings for the project. This presentation will walk you through key improvements achieved on three different
projects for the residential, commercial and public services projects in the US. Key talking points in this presentation include construction sequencing,
constructability, site utilization, resource allocation, material staging, communication across project team members, project scope review & capture; as well as
Synchro PRO and Fuzer pitfalls, tips and work flows. Presented by Cristian Herrera, Project Controls Director at VIATechnik.
Friday, 11:00 AM to 12:15 PM
FRI21 - Circling the Wagons When Schedule Risk Becomes Litigation Risk
The project schedule cannot be recovered. Big delay and impact claims appear inevitable. This seminar will discuss practical steps which scheduling professionals and
their production teams can take before the attorneys get involved. A non-attorney guide to (1) What you can expect once all the parties “lawyer up” (2) What your team
needs to do now to protect its position (3) Common mistakes that can be devastating to your litigation prospects (4) How to avoid having a troubled project turn into a
claim disaster. Presented by Randy R. Dow of Boyd & Jenerette
FRI22 - Oracle Primavera Town Hall
An interactive session to talk shop, learn and share ideas on Oracle's strategy to best serve the AEC community
led by Garrett Harley, Director, Engineering & Construction Strategy
FRI23 - Project Risk Analysis with Risk Events Step by Step
Efficiency of project risk analysis process depends on how project uncertainties are identified and modelled. Uncertainties in task durations and costs can be modelled
using statistical distributions. Uncertainties can also be modelled using discrete risk events (threats, opportunities, or both), which can be assigned to the project
tasks and resources.
This presentation includes step by step process of quantitative risk analysis with risk events. The process starts with risk identification
and recording them using a risk register. The next step is assigning risks to tasks and resources with certain probability and impact. Then the relationship between
risks is identified. This relationship is graphically presented using event chain diagrams. Uncertainties defined by statistical distributions represented unidentified
events or “nose”. The Monte Carlo simulation helps to generate risk adjusted project schedule as well as rank events and event chains. Mitigation and response planning
is conducted for the critical risk events and chains. The next runs of Monte Carlo simulations help to determine efficiency and cost of mitigation efforts. The process
repeated multiple times during project execution based on actual task duration and cost.
Presented by Lev Virine of Risky Project
FRI24 - Proper Integration of Lean Construction Pull Planning with the CPM Schedule
This session will attempt to bridge the gap and integrate traditional CPM planning and scheduling with “LEAN Construction” methods. “LEAN Construction” pull planning
has been encouraged and is rapidly gaining acceptance as an integral part of project planning and scheduling. Traditional CPM scheduling is based on setting forth the
activities necessary to complete the project by the future contract completion date, based on the activities and sequence that define the critical path. This is often
referred to as a “push” method of planning. LEAN pull planning, on the other hand, is based on efficiently completing work when the next production unit is ready, in
order to maximize efficiency and reliable workflow. The AGC notes that “there is a big shift in LEAN construction methods, which advocate delaying decisions to the
last possible moment” with traditional planning and scheduling that focuses on making decisions and completing work as quickly as possible.
Presented by Charles V. Choyce of Berkeley Research Group and Benjamin Crosby of Yates Construction
FRI25 - Mitigating Delay Claims and Scheduling Best Practices
Session addresses Claims and Risk Awareness, specifically as it related to construction scheduling. How to mitigate claims when construction change is inevitable.
Learn about the principle causes of dispute and how to avoid claims as it relates to the project schedule function. Presented by
Raquel Shohet, EI, PSP, of Hill International, with over 25 years of construction industry experience in the
engineering, cost, scheduling, estimating, and field disciplines.
FRI26 - Next Generation Professional Construction Scheduler and Emerging Technologies
Emerging technologies in the Engineering and Construction Industry are revolutionizing the Construction Scheduler’s skill set. 3d Modeling, cost management and
advanced risk analysis are making the Construction Scheduler an essential member of any design and/or construction team. The title of this next generation Engineering
and Construction professional may not even include the word Scheduler as these skills would be only one of several skills in their quiver. The current term Virtual
Design and Construction (VDC) is the beginning of this trend, evidenced by the ongoing argument of which professional, VDC Engineer/Manager or Construction Scheduler,
should be in charge of creating 4/5D models. Emerging technologies such as Synchro ltd, Deltek Acumen Fuze, Risk/360, Sage Timberline software, Autodesk Suites and
Oracle’ s construction management cloud solutions have sparked the birth of this new era signaling the reversal of the downward trend in late and over budget
construction projects. Presented by Jeff Campbell, PSP, Project Controls Cubed
Friday, 12:15 PM to 2:00 PM -- Lunch
Friday, 2:00 PM to 3:15 PM
FRI31 - Jones Day on Law of AEC Claims
FRI32 - OPTIMAL SELLING Uncovering the Propsect’s Compelling Reason to Buy
Many times salespeople lose deals even when the prospects have a reason to buy and money to spend. Most salespeople routinely fail to uncover the prospect’s
compelling reason to buy because they use an antiquated method of selling. Their approach shuts the prospect down and they walk away thinking that the
problem was their product or the price when, in fact, it was their approach. This session will give participants a framework to take on every sales call and
some field tested skills to uncover the prospect’s compelling reason to buy. You will learn:
- Why price is almost never the issue
- Why prospects close down and don’t share the real issues
- How to get them to open up and tell why they would buy
- Two counter-intuitive sales techniques that get the prospect moving in your direction
- Why most salespeople fail
- The biggest key to differentiating yourself on every call
Dan Caramanico has extensive background managing large construction projects. And he has spent the past 25 years teaching individuals and major corporations how to dramatically increase their sales of products and services and has published two books on that very subject.
Presented by Dan Carimanico of Caramanico Maguire Associates, Sales Force Training & Development.
FRI33 - Schedule Simulation – The Lego Experience Part I
4D scheduling is not easy, and the multitude of other project requirements can be difficult to meet. If the project team is given a 4D schedule they might not be aware
of how to use it, and many of the people who create 4D schedules do not have experience in using them. During this session, Lego Blocks will be used to simulate a 4D
experience and to demonstrate the benefits of an active 4D process over traditional scheduling. The participants will have to maintain quality, schedule and scope
while building their structure. Please bring your laptop, so you can actually use the models to build. After the session, participants will have a better understanding
of how 4D, BIM and Lean are incorporated into traditional practices, how they can improve project performance, why it can be difficult for teams to adopt new practices,
and what can be done to improve our VDC practices. All this, while playing with Legos!!
Presented by Ben Crosby.
FRI34 - TRIMBLE VICO - TBD
FRI35 - Ideal Project Durations From Optimization Using CPM
The cost saving power of CPM should be unleashed! For too long construction managers have underused the capabilities of CPM tools. Related industries have
been harnessing the power of optimizing schedules for decades. This session is for managers that are already familiar with the basic capabilities of CPM and
want the tools to stretch the limits of what CPM can do for their business. The session will teach about how CPM software can be used to optimize a project
schedule, returning to schedulers the most ideal durations and cost, with the least amount of risk. Principles of cost optimization are taught and coaching
is given for applied optimization of real projects. This session is perfect for the savvy scheduler who does not have the time or money to waste any more
time and money.
Presented by Evan Bingham of Brigham Young University
FRI36 - UFSG Project Schedule Structure Requirements
The Unified Facilities Guide Specifications (UFGS) is a joint effort of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), the Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC),
the Air Force Civil Engineer Center (HQ AFCEC) and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The UFGS is for use in specifying construction for the
military services. Meeting the scheduling structure requirements of Section 01 32 01.00 10 is often a source of much misunderstanding and frustration on the part of
the Project Team and the Scheduler in achieving an approved baseline. An understanding these requirements versa the expectations of the specific Government’s Project
Delivery Team (PDT) will help in structuring your schedule such that it will be accepted by the PDT. This session will provide basic tricks and tips of structuring
your Project Schedule to the UFGS Project Schedule Specifications.
Presented by David Long, CB&I Federal Services, LLC
Friday, 3:35 PM to 4:50 PM
FRI41 - Experts & Ethics
Panel Led by Judge Marshall
FRI42 - The GREAT DEBATE
FRI43 - Schedule Simulation – The Lego Experience Part II
Presented by Ben Crosby.
FRI44 - RESOURCE ALLOCATION TRACK TBD
FRI45 - CPM Activity Status
There are many instances where the improper or imprecise definition of activity status has caused conflict
between project stakeholders. Sometimes activities are unnecessarily statused as having started early and out
of planned sequence, causing critical path and float concerns. Cost loaded scheduling sometimes leaves nearly
every activity as being statused incomplete until project punchlist.
In a claims situation, the evaluation of quantum is in part dependent upon the status assessment of active
activities and hence the status of the schedule. We should properly define the meaning of ‘activity status’ to
standardize the reading of it. It is important to the scheduling industry for consistency of application so
that each scheduler will provide a similar answer to the same situation.
Presented by Marina Sominsky, PSP, PMP, EIT and Ron Winter, PSP, FAACE
FRI46 - UFSG Project Schedule Reporting Requirements
The Unified Facilities Guide Specifications (UFGS) is a joint effort of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), the Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC),
the Air Force Civil Engineer Center (HQ AFCEC) and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The UFGS is for use in specifying construction for the
military services. Meeting the scheduling reporting requirements of Section 01 32 01.00 10 is often a source of much misunderstanding and frustration on the part of
the Project Team and the Scheduler in achieving an approved progress schedule reports. An understanding these requirements versa the expectations of the specific
Government’s Project Delivery Team (PDT) will help in reporting your schedule such that it will be accepted by the PDT. This session will provide basic tricks and tips
of structuring your Project Schedule Reports to the UFGS Project Schedule Specifications.
Presented by David Long, CB&I Federal Services, LLC
-- page under construction -- speakers please provide updated Abstracts for this web page and conference booklet - limit 50 words - we will insert your supplied hyperlinks - program subject to change without notice