the algerian east-west motorway | feature stories 3 project challenges • Applying a set of design norms developed for one continent on another continent, under the umbrella of a consortium from a third continent, while maintaining good communications across-the-board. • Establishing a system for submission, for client review, of design documents in sections or packages that are appropriate to a complex design-build, fast-track project - the normal procedure requires submission of complete design dossiers. The new system was developed and given the go-ahead to facilitate gradual approvals and early start of construction. • Knowing that a high degree of design checks and reviews would be carried out by a large coordination team from the client’s side, there was an intensive which turned out to be very effective too - effort that submittals were “right the first time.” • Identifying simple differences - the subtle cultural differences that make life more interesting - among the approaches of the various parties and acting accordingly. For example, at an early date noting that a consultant’s document stamped “we have no comments” would be interpreted by the client’s subcontractor as a rejection with no explanation instead of the intended acceptance of the document, and clarifying the situation immediately. work methods • Schedules were respected: this is a golden rule. • Everything must be on time: deadlines are sacred. • No delay, no matter how short. • A careful attention to detail entailing a thorough review prior to any submission. • No information is ever taken lightly, nothing to be taken for granted. • Zero tolerance for errors. • Documents must be checked, re-checked and triple checked. • Accuracy in dimensions. • Persistence and regular follow up to resolve all pending matter effectively. • Discussion of all technical issues to arrive at a unanimous consensus. • Value engineering of all project components to ensure economy and speed of construction. 4 5 6 47