202A: Best Practices for Managing Small to Medium-Sized Municipal Planning and Landscape Architecture Projects

September 21, 2022

1:30PM - 2:00PM

Municipal managers and their consultants are very typically pressured to complete challenging (and sometimes unpredictable) planning and landscape architecture projects on time and on budget, often while striving for innovation and unique outcomes. When a project is not managed effectively, the quality of the end product almost always suffers, and the process is likely to face scrutiny or an erosion of trust between project managers, decision-makers, and even the public. In a worst-case scenario, the project may be cancelled, and the public interest objectives may be compromised. Projects that are well-managed and delivered on time and on budget build trust with decision-makers and the project message (be it design, policy, or study) can take centre stage.

In this interactive session, the presenters will draw from their experience as consultant project managers to highlight key tools, tips, techniques, and principles for estimating and managing budgets, resources, and schedules for small and medium-sized planning, landscape architecture, and urban design projects. The presentation focuses on case studies and project management fundamentals outlined by the Project Management Institute (PMI). This includes, for example: estimating project budgets accurately using a bottom-up approach; developing time-task matrices and other means to manage resources; tools for tracking and maintaining schedules; and approaches for dealing with unexpected changes and managing risk.

The session is intended to contain information applicable to municipal staff, consultants, and decision-makers. The presenters will also look at the strengths and weakness addressing project management as it relates to the unique aspects of our two disciplines and how collaboration and information sharing can be leveraged to foster greater project success.

Speakers